India's Jaishankar Boosts Ties with 4 Nations at BRICS

At the BRICS Foreign Ministers' conclave in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar seized the opportunity for substantive bilateral outreach. On Friday, he conducted focused meetings with foreign ministers from Malaysia, Uganda, Cuba, and Iran, prioritizing enhanced collaboration and robust diplomatic relations. The session with Malaysia's Mohamad Hasan was particularly productive, assessing advancements in their comprehensive strategic partnership. Emphasis was placed on implementing outcomes from PM Modi's landmark Malaysia trip in February. Jaishankar tweeted: 'Always a pleasure meeting Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan of Malaysia. Reviewed progress in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and follow-up on PM @narendramodi's visit this year.' Jaishankar then connected with Uganda's Odongo Jeje Abubakher, exploring avenues in critical areas like food security, health, technology transfer, and trade expansion. The talks celebrated the enduring India-Uganda partnership, bolstered by community and business linkages. 'Great meeting with Uganda FM Odongo Jeje Abubakher. Our longstanding partnership continues to progress. Discussed food & health security, tech collaboration, and strong people-to-people & business ties,' he posted. In a significant development, the meeting with Cuba's Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla reviewed joint efforts in healthcare, developmental aid, and skill enhancement. The exchange of an MoU for routine diplomatic consultations marks a new chapter in institutionalized dialogue. 'Delighted to meet Cuba FM Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla. Discussed cooperation in health, development partnership and capacity building. Also exchanged MoU for regular consultations between our Foreign Ministries,' Jaishankar announced. Kicking off the day, Jaishankar's conversation with Iran's Seyed Abbas Araghchi tackled West Asian dynamics and their global ramifications, intertwined with bilateral priorities. Appreciation was expressed for Iran's commitment to future BRICS engagements. 'In Delhi, detailed conversation with Iran FM Abbas Araghchi. Discussed West Asia situation & its implications. Also covered bilateral issues of mutual interest.' These interactions reflect India's strategic vision in multilateral forums, fostering deeper South-South cooperation amid a shifting world order. The outcomes are poised to yield tangible benefits in trade, technology, and security domains.