India-Canada FM’s meet at sidelines of Munich Security Conference amid strained relations

New Delhi, Feb 17: Amidst the valued gathering of global leaders at the Munich Security Conference @MSC2024, Minister of External Affairs, Dr S Jaishankar, had a series of crucial meetings, each laden with diplomatic significance and underscored by pressing international concerns.

One of the pivotal engagements on the sidelines of @MSC2024 occurred between Jaishankar and his Canadian counterpart, Mélanie Joly, against the backdrop of strained relations between the two nations.

The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the two ministers delved into discussions about the current state of bilateral ties. Jaishankar, known for his diplomatic finesse, emphasized the importance of dialogue, stating, "Our conversation understandably focused on the present state of our bilateral ties. It was also useful to exchange views on the global situation."

Joly echoed Jaishankar's sentiments, reflecting on the frank exchange that transpired during their meeting. "At the 2024 Munich Security Conference, Dr S Jaishankar and I had a frank discussion on Canada-India relations and the current global issues, including Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine," she remarked in a post on social media platform X.

The meeting between Jaishankar and Joly took place against the backdrop of allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding India's alleged involvement in the death of a separatist—a claim vehemently refuted by the Indian government as baseless and motivated. The encounter served as a platform for both nations to address lingering tensions and explore avenues for constructive engagement.

In addition to the significant India-Canada dialogue, Jaishankar's itinerary at the sidelines of the conference was replete with engagements with an array of global leaders, each conversation contributing to the mosaic of international diplomacy.

His discussions ranged from strategic partnerships with the United States and the United Kingdom to regional cooperation with Bangladesh and global health initiatives with the World Health Organization.

Reflecting on his interactions, Jaishankar expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with counterparts from diverse geopolitical landscapes. "Pleasure to meet FM of Portugal @JoaaoCravinho, this time in Munich. Shared views on recent global developments," he conveyed in a message on X, encapsulating the spirit of dialogue and collaboration permeating the conference.

The depth of Jaishankar's engagements was evident in his discussions with leaders such as Poland's Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski, where the focus extended beyond bilateral ties to encompass discussions on the Ukraine conflict.

Meeting with Sikorski, reflecting on their meeting, remarked, "A deep discussion on the Ukraine conflict with FM @sikorskiradek of Poland today on #MSC2024 sidelines. Also exchanged views on our bilateral cooperation in different domains."

From discussions on major security challenges with Greece's Minister of National Defence, Nikos Dendias, to dialogues on economic cooperation with Argentina's Foreign Minister Diana Mondino, Jaishankar's engagements underscored India's commitment to fostering robust international partnerships across a spectrum of domains.

The Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2024 convenes from February 16 to 18, 2024, at the renowned Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich. This respected gathering serves as a platform for high-level debates on the most urgent security challenges facing the world today. Founded in 1963, the MSC celebrates its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of facilitating crucial discussions on global security issues.

Attracting senior global decision-makers and thought leaders from around the world, the conference offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders to assemble and address pressing international security concerns and have bilateral meetings on the sideline of the conference.

As the Munich Security Conference continues to unfold, Jaishankar's interactions serve as a testament to India's proactive role in shaping the global security discourse and fostering meaningful cooperation on the world stage.

With the complex tapestry of international relations woven through each dialogue, the conference holds promise for charting a path towards collective security and prosperity in an increasingly interconnected world.