External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has urged the countries of the Global South to adopt a comprehensive and collaborative strategy to address pressing global challenges and harness their collective strengths.

Speaking at a high-level meeting of “Like-Minded Global South Countries” on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, Jaishankar outlined a vision that spans politics, diplomacy, development, and technology. Representatives from 18 nations, including Singapore, Indonesia, Nigeria, Cuba, Vietnam, Mauritius, Morocco, Chad, and Jamaica, participated in the meeting.

Highlighting India’s role as a voice of the Global South, Jaishankar said countries could leverage their individual achievements for mutual benefit. He pointed to India’s progress in vaccines, digital technology, agriculture, education, and small business development as examples of contributions that can be shared.

Looking ahead, he emphasized exploring emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and their potential to drive inclusive growth across the developing world.

On the political and diplomatic front, Jaishankar stressed the importance of working together to reform the United Nations and strengthen multilateralism. He also encouraged using existing forums to deepen solidarity and amplify the collective voice of the Global South.

The Maldives’ Foreign Minister echoed these sentiments, stating that “the strength of the Global South lies in its unity and collective action,” with climate change, development financing, and Security Council reform identified as priority areas.

Participants agreed that greater collaboration could help ensure resilient development pathways and address common challenges.

The meeting reinforced India’s leadership role in mobilizing Global South nations to push for equitable global governance and sustainable development in the face of evolving geopolitical dynamics.