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External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's recent two-day visit to Switzerland underscored India's commitment to global engagement, particularly in the areas of multilateralism, human rights, and the promotion of traditional medicine systems on an international platform. The visit saw Jaishankar engaging with key leaders of international organizations in Geneva, including United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk and World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Jaishankar's discussions with these leaders provided a platform to share India's perspectives on the evolving landscape of human rights and explore strategies to strengthen global frameworks. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation in public health and highlighted India's expertise in traditional medicine systems, advocating for their integration into global health initiatives.
The visit also witnessed the inauguration of India's newly constructed Permanent Mission in Geneva. This landmark structure will serve as a central hub for India's missions dealing with the UN, the Conference on Disarmament, the World Trade Organization, and the Consulate General of India. The mission's design incorporates symbolic elements that reflect India's cultural heritage and its commitment to inclusivity. A statue of Bhimrao Ambedkar, a prominent figure in India's social justice movement, and a hall dedicated to Hansa Mehta, a key figure in promoting gender equality during the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, serve as reminders of India's values and its contributions to the global human rights discourse.
Beyond official engagements, Jaishankar addressed a large gathering of the Indian community and Friends of India at the Permanent Mission, showcasing India's recent advancements and its vision for global engagement. He also delivered a talk on 'Global Tectonics: The Indian View of a World in Churn' at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP), engaging with a diverse audience of diplomats, academics, think tanks, students, and the Indian diaspora. This address provided insights into India's perspectives on the complex geopolitical landscape and its role in shaping a more equitable and stable world order.
Bilateral discussions with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Daniele Giovanni Cassis focused on strengthening relations between the two countries. The two leaders explored avenues for boosting trade and investment, particularly through the Free Trade Agreement between India and EFTA States (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein). They also addressed global and regional issues of mutual interest, highlighting the importance of cooperation on shared challenges.
Jaishankar's visit to Switzerland serves as a testament to India's growing role on the global stage. His engagements demonstrate the country's commitment to multilateralism, its advocacy for human rights, and its vision for a more inclusive and equitable world. The inauguration of the new Permanent Mission further solidifies India's presence in Geneva, signifying the country's determination to be a key player in shaping international affairs.