India condemned acts of terrorism and hostage-taking while expressing profound concern over the ongoing civilian casualties in the Israel-Hamas conflict. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar endorsed calls for an immediate ceasefire to address the humanitarian crisis.
The Israel-Hamas conflict was a key topic at the inaugural India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) foreign ministers meeting held in Riyadh. The meeting adopted a joint action plan aimed at enhancing collaboration in trade, security, energy, and food security, reflecting India’s efforts to strengthen ties with West Asian countries.
Jaishankar emphasized that the situation in Gaza is “our foremost concern,” reaffirming India’s consistent stance on ending hostilities and pursuing a two-state solution. He condemned terrorism and hostage-taking, stressing that responses must adhere to humanitarian law and advocating for a swift ceasefire.
India has long supported the resolution of the Palestinian issue through a two-state solution, contributing to Palestinian institution-building, providing humanitarian aid, and supporting UNRWA.
Jaishankar co-chaired the meeting with Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, who currently presides over the GCC ministerial council. The meeting was attended by foreign ministers from the six GCC member states and the GCC Secretary-General, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi.
The joint action plan for 2024-2028 includes initiatives in trade, security, health, agriculture, food security, transportation, energy, and culture. The plan allows for the inclusion of additional cooperation areas based on mutual agreement.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored the strategic importance of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to India, describing the region as part of India’s “extended neighbourhood.” He expressed gratitude to GCC members for their support of the large Indian diaspora residing in their countries and emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation across various sectors.
The Indian government has prioritized enhancing relations with GCC members, who collectively host nearly nine million Indian citizens and are crucial suppliers of crude oil and gas. The GCC comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Jaishankar highlighted the significance of the India-GCC strategic partnership, noting that joint efforts in trade, investment, infrastructure, and people-to-people connections contribute to economic growth in both West Asia and India. This, in turn, supports a more stable and prosperous global economy.
Jaishankar emphasized the interconnection between security and progress, stating, “Progress and prosperity require stronger security. In a world marked by conflict and tension, we are committed to global peace, security, and stability.”
Given the GCC’s role as a major global energy supplier and India’s status as one of the fastest-growing markets, Jaishankar noted that future demand will largely come from India. He stated that deeper collaboration would aid in market stabilization, drive innovation, and enhance energy security.
During his visit to Riyadh, Jaishankar held several bilateral meetings with GCC counterparts and other international leaders. He met with Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira to discuss the G20, BRICS, and the Ukraine conflict. With Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, Jaishankar explored opportunities to advance bilateral ties through an early joint commission meeting.
In talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, Jaishankar reviewed the progress in bilateral relations and shared views on global and regional issues, expressing anticipation for future interactions in India.
Jaishankar also met with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, and Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, addressing regional developments including the Israel-Hamas conflict in these discussions.
