Foreign Affairs Minister Douglas Strengthens Bilateral Ties with India during High-level Meeting with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

New Delhi, India (8th August, 2024)- – In an effort to consolidate international cooperation, Foreign Minister Douglas met with his counterpart, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, in New Delhi, on the 6th of August. The bilateral meeting focused on deepening the partnership between the two nations, with discussions encompassing key areas such as digital innovation, health, food security, and capacity development.

During the meeting, both Ministers underscored the importance of leveraging their shared values and mutual interests to enhance cooperation in these critical sectors. Minister Douglas and Minister Jaishankar also exchanged views on their convergences as nations of the Global South within the multilateral arena, emphasising their commitment to advocating for the collective interests of developing countries on the global stage.

A highlight of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at further intensifying bilateral consultations. This MoU marks a significant step towards institutionalising regular dialogues, fostering closer political ties, and facilitating a more robust exchange of ideas and strategies.

Minister Douglas remarked, “this meeting today represents a crucial milestone in strengthening our bilateral relations. By highlighting our intention to collaborate in digital, health, food security, and capacity development, we are paving the way for a more prosperous and secure future for both our nations. The MoU we have signed is a testament to our shared vision and commitment to continuous dialogue and cooperation.” Minister Jaishankar echoed these sentiments, highlighting
the strong foundation of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

This meeting and the subsequent agreements signal a new era of strategic partnership, reinforcing the bond between the two countries and their resolve to work collaboratively towards common objectives.