Paris, March 26 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar had discussions with his counterparts from South Korea, Canada, and Japan during the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in France on Thursday.

In their discussions, EAM Jaishankar and Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand emphasized the importance of enhancing bilateral relations and the evolving situation in West Asia.

"Continued my dialogue with FM Anita Anand to further our bilateral agenda. We also addressed the developments in West Asia," EAM Jaishankar shared on X following their meeting.

Additionally, EAM Jaishankar met with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, expressing optimism about strengthening the partnership between their nations.

"Had a fruitful meeting with FM Cho Hyun of RoK. I am eager to advance our collaborative efforts," he posted on X.

He also greeted his Japanese counterpart, Toshimitsu Motegi.

"Always a pleasure to meet my friend FM Toshimitsu Motegi, especially on the sidelines of the G7 FMM," he noted on X.

Earlier that day, EAM Jaishankar arrived in France for the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

"Landed at Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay, France to take part in the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with partner nations. Received warmly by Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot of France for my first bilateral engagement," he posted on X.

This two-day visit aims to engage in critical discussions on pressing global matters, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and tensions in West Asia.

According to a statement from France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, "Discussions regarding Iran and the Middle East will focus on finding negotiation pathways to foster de-escalation, ensuring the safety of civilian populations, reopening maritime and trade routes, and addressing the Iranian regime’s nuclear and ballistic programs."

"Regarding Ukraine, G7 partners will reaffirm their support for Kyiv, particularly in terms of energy and military capabilities, while intensifying pressure on Russia, especially concerning its shadow fleet," it further stated.

The ministers are also set to tackle various regional issues, including the Indo-Pacific, Sudan, Haiti, Gaza, and Venezuela and Cuba, considering developments that unfolded since early 2026.

The statement outlined that France and its partners are committed to collaborating on international funding to repair the Chernobyl confinement structure, which suffered severe damage from a Russian strike in 2025, and to organize a regional conference targeting the trafficking of synthetic drugs like Captagon in Syria. Additionally, discussions will cover regional economic integration in the Middle East.

"The Ministers will form a G7 task force to develop a network of ports in G7 nations and partner countries to intensify efforts against drug trafficking. Another focus will be organizing a regional security conference in the Caribbean, specifically in Martinique in July 2026, to bring together countries in the region and G7 partners to combat drug trafficking. Furthermore, the fifth 'No Money for Terror' conference is scheduled for May 19, 2026, in Paris to tackle terrorist financing. Finally, securing critical mineral supply chains will also be part of the agenda, continuing discussions initiated during the Canadian G7 Presidency," the statement concluded.