S Jaishankar's Diplomatic Outreach: Strengthening Neighbourhood Ties

Union Minister S Jaishankar held separate bilateral meetings with various leaders from the Maldives, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Mauritius, Bhutan, and Seychelles. These discussions, which coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony, highlighted India's commitment to strengthening its ties with neighboring countries and the Indian Ocean region.

Union Minister S Jaishankar engaged in a flurry of diplomatic activities on Monday, conducting separate bilateral meetings with Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

He also met with Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, and Seychelles Vice President Ahmed Afif. These leaders were in Delhi for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony and the Union Council of Ministers.

On social media platform 'X', Jaishankar expressed his delight in meeting Maldives' President Muizzu, emphasizing hopes for closer India-Maldives cooperation. This marked Muizzu's first visit to India since his presidency began in November. Earlier tensions arose due to his pro-China stance and calls for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, now replaced by civilians.

Following his meeting with Bangladesh's Hasina, Jaishankar highlighted the advancing India-Bangladesh Maitri. His discussion with Sri Lanka's Wickremesinghe focused on the steady progress of bilateral relations. Meetings with Bhutan's Tobgay, Mauritius' Jugnauth, and Nepal's Dahal underscored the special bonds and growing cooperation between India and these nations.