At the meeting, S. Jaishankar affirmed India’s strong support for the priorities set by the South African Presidency, emphasising their alignment with India’s own advocacy during its G20 leadership.

He stated that international law, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982 must be respected. ‘The member nations must also recognise that multilateralism itself lies deeply damaged and that the UN and its Security Council are often grid-locked.’

"Just getting the UNSC back to work is not enough; its working methods and representation must change. More plurilateralism is required to plug global deficits. International cooperation itself must be less opaque or unilateral. And the global agenda cannot be narrowed down to the interests of a few."

Reiterating that member nations must respect the UN Charter and preserve the institutions, Jaishankar said “Geo-politics is a reality, as is national interest. But the very purpose of diplomacy - and a group like G-20 - is to find common ground and create the basis for collaboration." 

Source: tribuneindia 

Jaishankar highlighted India’s commitment to safeguarding maritime security, particularly in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden, where the Indian Navy has played a critical role. He stressed the need to restore normal maritime commerce, which has been disrupted due to geopolitical tensions. 

He highlighted that the global geopolitical situation remains difficult and G20’s ability to harmonise viewpoints is key to advancing an agreed agenda.

Reflecting on issues of global and regional interests including the recent developments in the Russia-Ukraine war, ending the Gaza war and the exchange of hostages, Jaishankar said "We welcome the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release, support humanitarian assistance, condemn terrorism and advocate a two-state solution. Maintaining the ceasefire in Lebanon and ensuring an inclusive Syrian-led, Syrian-owned solution are important. Peace and stability in the region is vital for the entire world."

On the Russia Ukraine conflict, he said we have long advocated dialogue and diplomacy. Today, the world expects that parties concerned deal with each other to end the war. 

Jaishankar concluded by affirming confidence in South Africa’s ability to lead the G20 effectively and uphold the focus on developmental issues. He also said that "Differences must not become disputes, disputes should not become conflicts and conflicts should not lead to a bigger breakdown. There are lessons from the last few years for all of us to reflect on. But equally, an experience to draw upon as we seek to lead the world to a better place."