Indias External Affairs Minister Discusses Ukraine and Gulf Conflicts with EUs Borrell in Atlanta

Atlanta, October 31 (Daily Kiran) : During the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in Atlanta, U.S. Secretary of State S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions with the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell. The two leaders focused on pressing global conflicts, including the situation in Ukraine and ongoing tensions in the Gulf region.Jaishankar took to social media platform X to share his insights, stating, “Discussed the Ukraine conflict and Gulf situation with EU HRVP Josep Borrell.” This conversation followed a previous phone call on October 25, where they coordinated diplomatic positions on these critical issues. In her remarks during the G20's first plenary session, Borrell highlighted the crises stemming from the Russia-Ukraine war and conflicts in the Middle East. She warned that Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the turmoil in the Middle East pose significant threats to energy and food supply chains, as well as to trade and navigation freedoms.“Maritime routes are vital lifelines for the global economy,” Borrell emphasized. Borrell also called for enhanced navigation freedom in the Black Sea and reaffirmed the EU's opposition to tolls and fees on international shipping routes. She noted, “Energy security and supply chain resilience are critical for global economic stability.” Earlier in the session, Jaishankar reiterated India's stance on the importance of diplomacy in addressing global challenges.He asserted that military solutions are insufficient, urging for diplomatic avenues to be fully explored. He expressed concern over the disproportionate impact of shipping attacks on the Global South, which has led to rising costs and limited availability of essential resources like fuel, food, and fertilizers. Jaishankar remarked, “The Global South is bearing the brunt of attacks on civilian shipping and seafarers, threatening the availability and cost of vital supplies.” He stressed the need to protect navigation freedoms and ensure an end to attacks within the framework of international law, particularly under UNCLOS.