External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that India is strengthening its domestic capabilities and forging trusted international partnerships as the global landscape undergoes significant changes.

Speaking during a panel discussion titled ‘The Continental Corridors: Who Connects the Heartland?’ at the Raisina Middle East Dialogue in Abu Dhabi, Jaishankar noted that global competition has intensified, new strategic chokepoints have emerged and nations are increasingly willing to leverage their advantages.

He emphasised that globalisation cannot be reversed, but must be managed with greater resilience and adaptability in an increasingly complex international environment.

Jaishankar highlighted the growing significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), stating that the initiative is already influencing regional thinking on connectivity and economic integration.

He reiterated that, amid evolving geopolitical and economic dynamics, India is focused on building its own strengths while cultivating reliable and trusted partnerships across regions.

On the sidelines of the dialogue, Jaishankar met Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili. The two leaders reviewed expanding bilateral ties, particularly in trade, tourism and education, and discussed opportunities to deepen cooperation further.

Their discussions covered collaboration in business, connectivity, culture and people-to-people exchanges, while also addressing current regional developments.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening political engagement, expanding economic relations and enhancing cooperation across tourism, education, cultural links and other areas of mutual interest.

Botchorishvili welcomed the growing partnership between the two countries and underscored the shared commitment to broadening cooperation across multiple sectors.

EAM Jaishankar also held talks with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, during which they reviewed bilateral relations and exchanged views on wider international developments.

The discussions reflected India’s continued diplomatic engagement with key partners across the Middle East and beyond, alongside its broader efforts to strengthen connectivity, economic cooperation and strategic partnerships.

ANI