External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conducted a series of high-level diplomatic meetings in Manila on Wednesday, engaging with foreign ministers from Canada, the United States, Russia, Singapore, and Australia to discuss bilateral cooperation and pressing international issues.
During his meeting with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, Jaishankar highlighted the steady progress in India-Canada relations. He said both sides focused on advancing the objectives outlined by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to further strengthen cooperation between the two nations.
Jaishankar also held discussions with Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, appreciating his views on regional developments and global challenges. The two leaders exchanged perspectives on issues affecting the international landscape during their conversation in Manila.
The Indian minister is currently visiting the Philippines for two days to participate in ASEAN-related framework discussions aimed at enhancing regional collaboration and addressing shared concerns among participating countries.
As part of his diplomatic engagements, Jaishankar met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and reviewed various areas of India-Russia cooperation. The discussions covered trade and investment opportunities, energy partnerships, connectivity, science and technology collaboration, and mobility-related issues. The two ministers also exchanged views on the ongoing Ukraine conflict and developments in the Gulf region. Jaishankar reiterated India’s concerns regarding the safety and security of Indian seafarers operating in the area.
Jaishankar further met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Manila, where both leaders reviewed key priorities under the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Their discussions covered important areas, including trade and tariffs, energy cooperation, defense and security, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence. They also shared perspectives on regional, global, and multilateral matters of mutual importance.
In another significant meeting, Jaishankar interacted with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and discussed the progress made following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Australia. The meeting focused on strengthening the partnership between India and Australia and building on outcomes from previous high-level engagements.
The series of meetings reflects India’s continued efforts to deepen partnerships with key countries while addressing global challenges through diplomatic dialogue and cooperation.
