Jaishankar at G20: “Peace Cannot Be Achieved Through Threatening Development”

At the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in New York, held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted critical global economic and security issues, emphasizing the need for dialogue, diplomacy, and reform in multilateral mechanisms. Addressing ongoing geopolitical challenges, he criticized the double standards evident in international policies, citing the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump imposing a 25% tariff on Russia as a “Russian penalty.” Jaishankar pointed out that such measures highlight inconsistencies in global approaches and disproportionately affect vulnerable nations, particularly in the Global South, by disrupting energy, food, and fertilizer security.

Jaishankar underscored that conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and Gaza, have intensified these pressures, with rising costs and limited access to essential resources becoming critical points of strain for nations. He argued that threatening development cannot facilitate peace, stressing that peace is best promoted through stability and constructive engagement. He warned that making essential resources uncertain in fragile economic situations benefits no one, and that the path forward lies in diplomacy rather than escalating complexities.

Highlighting the role of nations capable of engaging both sides in conflicts, Jaishankar suggested that such countries can play a critical role in achieving and maintaining peace. India, he noted, has been actively engaging with both Russia and Ukraine over the past years to contribute constructively toward conflict resolution. He emphasized that the international community must remain firm against terrorism, which he described as a persistent disruptor of peace and development. Given the extensive networks of terrorist organizations, those who act against them serve the broader global interest.

Jaishankar also highlighted the limitations of multilateralism and the United Nations, particularly in addressing conflicts, economic pressures, and terrorism, and emphasized the urgent need for reform to make multilateral institutions more effective. He stressed that the international situation is currently politically and economically volatile, and members of the G20 have a special responsibility to strengthen stability and guide global governance in a positive direction. Strengthening energy and economic security, combating terrorism decisively, and promoting dialogue and diplomacy were identified as crucial measures for global stability.

In addition to security and economic issues, Jaishankar addressed global workforce challenges, noting that demographic realities prevent many countries from meeting demands for skilled labor. His remarks came amid rising trade tensions and tariffs, alongside U.S. immigration policies under President Trump, including a new $100,000 fee on H-1B visas that particularly affects Indian professionals relying on temporary work visas.

Throughout his speech, Jaishankar emphasized the interconnected nature of peace, development, and economic stability. He underscored that global cooperation, adherence to consistent policies, and proactive engagement in conflict resolution are essential for addressing current geopolitical and economic challenges. By focusing on dialogue, diplomacy, and inclusive multilateral strategies, nations can collectively ensure sustainable development, security, and a more stable international environment.

In conclusion, Jaishankar’s remarks at the G20 highlighted the urgent need for principled global action, equitable policies, and stronger international cooperation to address conflicts, terrorism, economic volatility, and workforce challenges, all while emphasizing that sustainable peace and development are mutually reinforcing goals.