Mon Nov 25 12:41:09 UTC 2024: ## Jaishankar Calls for West Asia Ceasefire, Supports Two-State Solution

**Rome, Italy –** Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday advocated for an immediate ceasefire in West Asia and reiterated India’s long-standing support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Speaking at the Mediterranean Dialogues conference in Rome, Mr. Jaishankar condemned the violence, hostage-taking, and civilian casualties resulting from the ongoing conflict. He emphasized the unacceptability of large-scale civilian casualties and the imperative to uphold international humanitarian law.

Mr. Jaishankar highlighted India’s proactive diplomatic efforts, including high-level engagement with both Israel and Iran to promote restraint and communication. He noted India’s significant contribution to UN peacekeeping efforts in Lebanon, with over 900 personnel deployed as part of UNIFIL, and the deployment of naval ships in the Gulf of Aden and northern Arabian Sea to protect commercial shipping.

Addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Mr. Jaishankar stressed the need for a return to dialogue and diplomacy, emphasizing that a solution will not emerge from continued warfare. He reiterated India’s consistent call for peaceful resolution through negotiations, highlighting Prime Minister Modi’s personal engagements with leaders of both Russia and Ukraine.

Mr. Jaishankar also discussed India’s growing economic ties with Mediterranean nations, citing $80 billion in annual trade and a significant Indian diaspora. He highlighted opportunities for enhanced cooperation in areas like energy, technology, and defense, and emphasized the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) to further strengthen these relationships. He also mentioned the importance of the I2U2 grouping (India, Israel, UAE, and U.S.) in shaping future regional dynamics. Finally, he met with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy to discuss further collaboration between the two nations. Mr. Jaishankar will continue his visit by participating in the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Fiuggi.

Read More