Jaishankar At UNGA 81: From Terror To AI, The Issues Shaping India’s Global Agenda

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, outlining India’s position on some of the major security and geopolitical challenges facing the world. His address covered terrorism, Pakistan, maritime security, ongoing conflicts, artificial intelligence, the Global South and the future of multilateralism.

Jaishankar said terrorism cannot coexist with friendship and goodwill. He called state-sponsored and cross-border terrorism a persistent threat to peace and urged governments supporting it to face accountability.

Jaishankar called for a continued zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism and greater international action against its financial networks. He further said terrorism must not undermine global security and flagged attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers in the Gulf, Red Sea and Black Sea.

India has joined Liberia and 23 partners to oppose such attacks.

Jaishankar called for restraint and de-escalation amid continuing conflicts, along with protection of civilians and uninterrupted movement of energy and commerce. He stressed that international law must be respected to ensure the safety and security of shipping and seafarers.

Jaishankar highlighted AI as a tool for human empowerment, economic growth and large-scale problem-solving. He further backed national AI ecosystems and deeper cooperation with the Global South.

The Minister praised UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ contributions, including support for Mission LiFE, and called for stronger global commitment to peace, development and prosperity. His address covered terrorism, global conflicts, maritime security, AI, the Global South and multilateral cooperation.

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