EAM Jaishankar Engages with French Minister on West Asia Tensions
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 11 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions regarding the prevailing conflict in West Asia during a recent phone call with his French counterpart, Jean-Noel Barrot, on Wednesday.
"I valued our conversation today with FM Jean-Noel Barrot of France concerning the West Asia conflict. Anticipating our future discussions in person," EAM Jaishankar shared on X following their dialogue.
This exchange occurs amidst the escalating conflict in West Asia, ignited by coordinated US-Israel strikes on Iran on February 28, which provoked a significant counter-response from Tehran featuring drone and missile strikes targeting US assets, regional capitals, and allied forces.
On Tuesday, EAM Jaishankar also held an extensive phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, concentrating on the latest developments in the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
In a post on X, Jaishankar remarked, "Had a detailed discussion this evening with Foreign Minister @araghchi of Iran regarding the latest updates on the ongoing conflict. We agreed to keep our lines of communication open."
This communication, which took place on Tuesday, reflects India's proactive diplomatic engagement as regional tensions escalate. This marks one of several recent high-level interactions between the two ministers, following earlier conversations amidst the deepening crisis involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
EAM Jaishankar also conversed with his South Korean counterpart, Cho Hyun, on Tuesday, discussing bilateral relations and the current situation in West Asia.
According to a statement from South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "The two ministers exchanged views on the circumstances on the Korean Peninsula and the broader region, particularly the situation in the Middle East, which significantly impacts global security and the economy. They agreed to maintain close communication regarding national security measures in response to Middle Eastern developments."
Following their discussions, EAM Jaishankar tweeted: "A productive conversation with FM Cho Hyun of RoK. We discussed progressing our bilateral agenda, as well as the situation in West Asia and its implications for energy."
Earlier on Tuesday, EAM Jaishankar spoke with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
"Exchanged insights with FM Johann Wadephul of Germany concerning the ongoing conflict in West Asia," EAM Jaishankar posted on X after their meeting.
In recent days, EAM Jaishankar has also been in touch with several other counterparts, including those from Italy and Oman, as India maintains communication with regional governments and key partners amidst the tense security situation in West Asia.
India has consistently championed de-escalation, restraint, dialogue, and diplomacy as the way forward, while prioritizing the safety of Indian nationals in the region and ensuring a steady supply of energy.