Jaishankar Highlights India's Transformation and Global Outreach During Côte d'Ivoire Diaspora Interaction

Jaishankar described the interaction with the diaspora as a valuable engagement and spoke about the changes India has undergone under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership as Modi completes 25 years in public service.

He said Modi's experience in governance and public service has continued to shape India's approach to international engagement and how the country responds to global challenges.

Jaishankar highlighted India's efforts to diversify energy supplies amid global uncertainties, strengthen access to fertilisers through international partnerships and improve ease of living by addressing issues affecting citizens.

He said the government's experience in dealing with domestic systems had also helped India respond more effectively to challenges abroad. Jaishankar cited improvements in passport services as an example of how a better understanding of administrative systems had enabled faster delivery and greater responsiveness.

He also pointed to India's ability to respond quickly during natural disasters and evacuate citizens caught in difficult situations overseas.

Referring to India's leadership of multilateral groupings, Jaishankar said the country's experience in building consensus during its BRICS and G20 presidencies had contributed to stronger global engagement. He noted that personal relationships and sustained diplomatic engagement had also played an important role.

The minister highlighted India's efforts during its G20 presidency to secure permanent membership for the African Union, describing it as an example of translating diplomatic intent into concrete action through a deeper understanding of international institutions.

Jaishankar also acknowledged the Indian diaspora's contribution to strengthening India's relations with other countries, describing overseas Indians as an important link between India and the societies in which they live.

The interaction took place as Modi marks 25 years in public service at the head of government. His tenure began on October 7, 2001, when he took charge as Chief Minister of Gujarat.