India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar Advocates Balanced Approach to West Asia Conflict

India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, emphasised India's "balanced" stance on the ongoing West Asia conflict. He highlighted India's commitment to justice and equity while addressing the complexities of the situation. During a meeting with the Indian community, Jaishankar, aged 69, reaffirmed India's support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Jaishankar stressed India's firm opposition to terrorism and hostage-taking, reflecting on the country's own experiences with terrorism. He stated, "As a country that itself has been impacted so deeply by terrorism, we are very strongly opposed to terrorism and hostage-taking. They should never be excused or condoned." He also emphasised the importance of minimising civilian casualties and respecting humanitarian law in any military action.

India's Support for Palestine

India has been actively contributing to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This agency is crucial for Palestinian relief efforts. Additionally, India has provided aid to the Palestinian authority and medical assistance to Lebanon. Jaishankar remarked on the necessity of resolving the Palestine issue to prevent ongoing instability in the region.

The minister reiterated India's backing for a two-state solution as a resolution to the Palestine issue. He noted that this approach requires international dialogue and consensus. Jaishankar expressed confidence in India's progress towards becoming a developed nation, citing significant initiatives over the past decade.

Engagement with Indian Community

While interacting with the Indian community in Bahrain, Jaishankar highlighted India's strides towards development. He mentioned improvements in ease of doing business, infrastructure transformation, and digital public infrastructure as key achievements. "The country in the last decade has taken very big and consequential steps in the last decade towards Viksit Bharat developed India," he stated.

Jaishankar expressed his delight in engaging with members of the Indian community in Bahrain. He acknowledged their role in strengthening India-Bahrain relations. "Delighted to interact with members of the Indian community in Bahrain today. They represent an India that is confident, capable and respected. Thanked them for their contributions in deepening India-Bahrain friendship," he shared on X.

Diplomatic Discussions

Earlier, Jaishankar discussed new opportunities in sectors like space, education, FinTech, and technology with his Bahraini counterpart. These talks included exchanging views on recent regional developments. His visit to Manama marked the final leg of his two-nation tour.

During his stay, Jaishankar co-chaired the 4th India-Bahrain High Joint Commission (HJC) alongside Bahrain's Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. This collaboration aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and exploring mutual interests between India and Bahrain.

Jaishankar's visit underscored India's diplomatic efforts and its commitment to fostering international partnerships while addressing regional challenges through dialogue and cooperation.