Jaishankar Calls for Urgent Reform of Multilateralism, Highlights India-UAE Partnership

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has called for urgent reform of the global multilateral system, highlighting the growing India-UAE partnership as an example of how countries can strengthen cooperation amid changing geopolitical and economic conditions. Speaking during his visit to the United Arab Emirates, Jaishankar emphasised the need for international institutions to adapt to emerging global challenges. He also pointed to cooperation among smaller groups of countries as a practical way to address shared concerns and improve international coordination.

The remarks come at a time when geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty and competing national interests are placing pressure on established international institutions. Jaishankars comments reflect Indias longstanding position that global governance structures must become more representative and responsive to the needs of developing countries.

The minister also highlighted the importance of minilateralism, an approach in which a limited number of countries work together on specific issues where they share common interests. Such partnerships can help governments coordinate policies and pursue practical solutions when broader international negotiations move slowly. The India-UAE relationship provides an example of this approach, with cooperation expanding across trade, investment, energy, defence and regional security. The two countries have strengthened economic engagement in recent years, including through the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which came into force in May 2022.

The UAE is an important economic partner for India, serving as a major commercial and logistics hub in the Gulf. Strong bilateral ties also support energy cooperation, business investment and the interests of the large Indian community living in the Emirates. During the visit, Jaishankar met UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss bilateral relations and regional and international developments.

India has repeatedly called for reforms to global institutions, including the United Nations Security Council, arguing that their current structures do not adequately reflect contemporary geopolitical and economic realities. The push for reform has gained importance as countries seek more effective international responses to challenges such as climate change, maritime security, energy supply disruptions and economic instability.

Jaishankars remarks underline Indias preference for a flexible approach to international cooperation, combining established multilateral institutions with smaller partnerships capable of addressing specific challenges. The extent to which such arrangements can contribute to lasting global governance reform will depend on countries ability to balance practical cooperation with inclusive decision-making. The expanding India-UAE partnership remains an important part of New Delhis diplomatic engagement in the Gulf as both countries seek to deepen economic ties and strengthen cooperation on regional and international issues.

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