North News
New Delhi, September 10
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, has called for a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict “as soon as possible,” stressing that the situation in Gaza remains India’s foremost concern. “The current situation in Gaza is understandably our foremost concern. India’s position is principled and consistent. While we condemn acts of terrorism and hostage-taking, we are deeply pained by the deaths of innocent civilians. Any response must adhere to humanitarian law. We support a ceasefire as soon as possible,” Jaishankar said while addressing the first India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on Monday.
He reaffirmed India’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution for resolving the Palestinian issue and highlighted India’s contributions to building Palestinian institutions. On the humanitarian front, India has provided relief and increased support to UNRWA.
Jaishankar further emphasized the importance of security in driving progress and prosperity, noting the Gulf region’s strategic significance in global geopolitics. He highlighted India’s commitment to peace, security, and stability, particularly in a world fractured by conflict and tension.
“Adversity often reveals the true value of friendships,” he said, citing how the pandemic underscored mutual reliance on health, food, and maritime security. He also pointed to emerging areas like AI, electric mobility, and green growth as critical areas for cooperation.
Jaishankar added that the India-GCC relationship is built on a foundation of shared history, culture, and values, and has evolved into a strong partnership spanning economics, energy, defense, technology, education, and people-to-people ties.
He concluded by highlighting the contributions of nearly 9 million Indians living and working in the Gulf, referring to them as a “living bridge” between India and the region, whose efforts are vital to Gulf economies.
