At the 81st United Nations General Assembly session in New York, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a forceful address that placed terrorism, maritime safety, and the concerns of the Global South at the center of India’s diplomatic agenda.
Jaishankar condemned cross-border terrorism, asserting that when states sponsor attacks beyond their borders, they undermine the very foundations of global order. In a pointed reference to Pakistan, he urged the international community to call out such practices without hesitation.
Delivering 🇮🇳’s statement at the 81st session of the @UN General Assembly. #UNGA81 https://t.co/IcMcmTNNAc
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 26, 2026
Highlighting the acute challenges faced by developing nations, Jaishankar noted that food, fuel, fertilizer, and finance crises have eroded trust in global cooperation. He emphasized that peace is not simply the absence of war but requires stability, security, and predictability to prevent future crises.
Maritime security featured prominently in his speech. He denounced recent attacks on commercial shipping in the Gulf, describing them as unacceptable and calling for restraint to protect civilians and seafarers. India, he said, is taking a leadership role in safeguarding maritime routes, joining Liberia to form a coalition of nations committed to shipping and seafarer safety.
On the sidelines of UNGA, Jaishankar engaged with counterparts from Russia and Iran, reiterating that choosing between BRICS and the UN is a “false choice.” His remarks underscored India’s intent to balance multilateral commitments while amplifying the voice of the Global South.
The UNGA’s theme this year—“Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all”—resonated with India’s priorities. Jaishankar’s sharp exchange with a Pakistani journalist, whom he rebuffed by calling Pakistan a “terrorist country,” further reinforced India’s uncompromising stance on terrorism.
India’s message at UNGA was clear: it seeks to champion the interests of developing nations, defend maritime security, and confront state-sponsored terrorism head-on.
