United Nations, September 29 (Udaipur Kiran) : Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar met with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on September 29, 2026, to address pressing global issues. Their discussions focused on the need to mitigate ongoing conflicts and their impacts, particularly concerning the Global South.
Jaishankar expressed his satisfaction with the meeting, highlighting the importance of reducing tensions in various regions. He noted, “Our conversation centered on the necessity to lessen conflicts and their effects, especially for the Global South.”
Earlier, during an event in New York, Jaishankar remarked on India’s long-standing policy of strategic autonomy, which allows the country to make independent decisions based on its interests. He pointed out that the United States is now adopting a similar approach by managing relationships with multiple countries simultaneously.
He stated, “What was once said about us is now being pursued with vigor by Washington.” Jaishankar emphasized that the U.S. is engaging with nations like China and Russia while also handling relationships in Asia and Europe.
While discussing strategic autonomy, Jaishankar humorously referenced a common saying used in the U.S., “chewing gum and walking,” implying that one can manage multiple tasks at once. He quipped, “I think there is a considerable supply of that chewing gum in Washington,” suggesting that the U.S. is trying to balance various international interests, sometimes conflicting, under President Donald Trump’s leadership.
Jaishankar concluded by noting that the dynamics have shifted; countries like India are now encouraged to maintain multiple relationships openly, a contrast to the past where they were advised to focus on a single ally. “The pretense is over for everyone; now, all are openly engaging with each other,” he stated.
Deependra Singh Chundawat is a Senior Sub-Editor at Udaipur Kiran, specializing in a wide range of technology topics including mobile phones, applications, gaming, PCs, and wearables. Along with covering the latest tech news, he also creates engaging web stories. Passionate about emerging technologies, he stays up to date with the newest trends and enjoys reading and writing about the latest mobile launches and digital innovations.