India Seeks Consensus Ahead of December G20 Summit, Says Jaishankar

Atlanta, November 1 (Daily Kiran) : India is optimistic about achieving consensus among G20 member nations on key issues ahead of the upcoming summit in December. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar made this statement during a press conference following the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Atlanta on Saturday. He emphasized that if serious efforts are made, India will support initiatives aimed at reaching a common agreement.

When asked whether a similar consensus could be expected at this summit as seen during India’s presidency, Jaishankar noted that the timing of the December summit is yet to arrive and that circumstances at that time will dictate the outcomes. “Clearly, we hope that the G20 will succeed in reaching a consensus,” he said.

He cited the BRICS group’s ability to achieve a joint statement despite varying circumstances and participation from different countries as an example. As December approaches, efforts to forge a similar consensus within the G20 will be prioritized, with India ready to assist in these endeavors.

Jaishankar acknowledged the challenges of building consensus on international platforms, especially in a time when the world appears polarized on several issues. Nonetheless, he believes dialogue and concerted efforts can lay the groundwork for collaboration.

During the discussion, Jaishankar addressed a previous comment he made about the U.S. being the “lone superpower.” He clarified that this remark was made in a different context during discussions with a delegation at the Munich Security Conference, which should not be conflated with the G20 meeting.

He noted that there was a general appreciation for India’s role in maintaining dialogue with diverse global perspectives. According to Jaishankar, there was recognition that in today’s polarized world, India has the capacity to engage with all sides, positioning itself as a bridge for communication among nations.

He also discussed the recent Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Atlanta, marking the third such meeting at the ministerial level this year, following similar gatherings in Delhi and Manila. Jaishankar expressed confidence that the Quad has made significant progress and anticipates future meetings that will focus on setting directions and expanding the group’s agenda.

Throughout the G20 meeting, Jaishankar held bilateral discussions with representatives from nearly all participating countries, with some meetings occurring individually and others in group settings.