Paris: India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a “useful talk” with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) in Cernay-la-Ville, France, focusing on key global security issues and cooperation.

Sharing details on X, Jaishankar described the interaction as constructive amid ongoing discussions among global leaders on pressing international challenges.

According to the US State Department, Rubio’s engagements at the G7 ministerial are centred on shared security concerns, including the Russia-Ukraine war, the evolving situation in the Middle East, and broader threats to global peace and stability.

India raises Global South priorities

During discussions at the G7 meeting, the minister emphasised the need for United Nations Security Council reforms, more efficient peacekeeping operations, and stronger humanitarian supply chains.

He also highlighted concerns of the Global South, particularly regarding energy security, fertiliser availability, and food security, which remain critical amid ongoing global conflicts.

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IMEC and trade connectivity in focus

Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), stressing the need for resilient trade routes and supply chains in light of uncertainties arising from West Asia conflicts.

He noted that India’s free trade agreements (FTAs) with the European Union, EFTA nations, and the United Kingdom have strengthened the potential of IMEC as a strategic connectivity initiative.

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Bilateral engagements continue

On the sidelines of the summit, Jaishankar also held a brief interaction with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, underscoring continued diplomatic engagement with key global partners.

The G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting brings together leading economies and partner countries to deliberate on geopolitical risks, global trade, and security challenges, with India playing an active role in shaping discussions on emerging global priorities.

IANS