Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM), visited Geneva, Switzerland, from September 12-13, 2024. His trip focused on strengthening India’s role in global discussions, particularly in multilateralism, human rights, and public health. During his stay, he met with key international figures and engaged with the Indian community in Switzerland.
Engagement with International Organisations
In Geneva, Dr. Jaishankar met with the leadership of several important international organizations. He had discussions with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr. Volker Turk, and the Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
In these meetings, Dr. Jaishankar emphasised India’s commitment to multilateralism. He discussed the state of human rights around the world and offered India’s perspective on the matter. The conversations also covered the challenges facing the global human rights ecosystem and how to improve it.
A significant part of the discussions focused on public health. Dr. Jaishankar highlighted India’s efforts to enhance cooperation in global health. He also discussed promoting Traditional Medicine systems worldwide, which India sees as an essential addition to modern healthcare.
Dedication of India’s Permanent Mission in Geneva
One of the highlights of Dr. Jaishankar’s visit was opening the new Permanent Mission of India in Geneva. This modern building is home to India’s teams working with the United Nations, the Conference on Disarmament, the World Trade Organization, and other important groups. It also houses the Consulate General of India.
At the event, Dr. Jaishankar honored two famous Indian figures. He revealed a statue of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, who helped write India’s Constitution and fought for social justice. A hall in the building was named after Smt. Hansa Mehta, who pushed for gender equality when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was being written.
To raise awareness about the environment, Dr. Jaishankar planted a tree as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative. This project encourages people to plant a tree in honor of their mothers.
Interaction with the Indian Community
Dr. Jaishankar took time to meet with the Indian community in Geneva. He addressed a large gathering at the Permanent Mission, where he spoke about India’s rapid development. He highlighted the strides India has made on the global stage and shared India’s vision for engaging with the world.
The Minister’s interaction was a chance to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora in Switzerland. He emphasised the role that the Indian community plays in promoting India’s interests abroad.
Lecture at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP)
During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar gave a lecture at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP). His talk was called “Global Tectonics: The Indian View of a World in Churn.” People from the diplomatic community, academics, think tanks, students, and the Indian community in Geneva attended the event. Dr. Jaishankar spoke about how the world is changing quickly and how India sees these changes. He also explained what India is doing to deal with these global shifts.
In his speech, Dr. Jaishankar discussed the rapidly changing global landscape. He explained how India views these changes and how the country is positioning itself to respond. His talk highlighted India’s growing influence in shaping international security and diplomatic policies.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties with Switzerland
Dr. Jaishankar’s visit to Geneva also included a special meeting with Swiss Foreign Minister Mr. Ignazio Daniele Giovanni Cassis. The developing friendship between India and Switzerland was evident in this meeting.
The two leaders discussed a range of bilateral issues, with a particular focus on trade and investment. They explored ways to leverage the Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Which includes Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. This agreement is seen as a key tool to boost trade between India and these countries.
In addition to trade, Dr. Jaishankar and Minister Cassis discussed various global and regional issues of mutual concern. Their discussions aimed to further strengthen the already strong ties between India and Switzerland.
Dr. S. Jaishankar’s visit to Geneva highlighted India’s active role in global affairs. From engaging with international organisations on human rights and public health to strengthening bilateral ties with Switzerland. His trip showcased India’s growing influence on the world stage. The dedication of India’s new Permanent Mission in Geneva further cements India’s commitment to multilateralism and global diplomacy.
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