Jaishankar embarks on six-nation tour to bolster ties, kickstart UNSC bid

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday began a six-nation tour aimed at strengthening bilateral relationships and launching India's campaign for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2028-29 term.

The minister's itinerary includes visits to key partners in Asia, Africa, and Europe. According to official sources, the tour is designed to deepen economic cooperation, enhance security partnerships, and garner support for India's candidature in the UNSC elections scheduled for next year.

Jaishankar's first stop is in the Maldives, where he is expected to review ongoing development projects and discuss regional security issues. This visit underscores India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. Subsequent destinations include Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, where talks will focus on connectivity, trade, and people-to-people ties.

The minister will then travel to Ethiopia, a key partner in Africa, to attend the African Union Summit and hold bilateral meetings. The final leg of the tour takes him to France, where he will co-chair the India-France Strategic Dialogue with his French counterpart.

India's campaign for a non-permanent UNSC seat has been a long-standing diplomatic goal. The country last served on the council in 2021-22. This tour is part of a sustained outreach to secure the required two-thirds majority in the UN General Assembly. Jaishankar is expected to personally present India's vision for a reformed multilateral system that reflects contemporary realities.

The visits are also aimed at enhancing cooperation on counter-terrorism, climate change, and sustainable development. India has emphasised its role as a voice of the Global South, advocating for greater representation of developing countries in global decision-making bodies.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the tour will reinforce India's commitment to its partners and its proactive role in shaping the global agenda. Jaishankar is scheduled to return on March 15.