Jaishankar urges diversification of cooperation at India-Korea Joint Commission Meeting

New Delhi, March 6 (IANS) External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized expanding cooperation in critical and emerging technology to ensure a secure Indo-Pacific during the 10th India-Korea Joint Commission Meeting in Seoul. Acknowledging the strong bilateral ties, Jaishankar expressed optimism in translating goodwill into practical outcomes.

Marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, Jaishankar lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role in elevating relations to a special strategic partnership in 2015. Highlighting the growth in trade, investments, and defense cooperation, he stressed the need to explore new areas of collaboration such as critical technologies, green hydrogen, and supply chain resilience.

Recognizing the alignment of India and Korea’s perspectives in international forums, Jaishankar underscored the significance of the Indo-Pacific region for both countries. In his first visit to Seoul, he suggested that India and South Korea can actively shape the global order amid uncertainties, emphasizing the increasing relevance of their partnership.

“As the two nations celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic ties last year…Our challenge is to translate that into practical outcomes,” said Minister S. Jaishankar, co-chairing the meeting with his Korean counterpart, Cho Tae-yul.

With a focus on expanding cooperation beyond traditional areas, Jaishankar highlighted the importance of critical and emerging technologies, human resource mobility, and nuclear cooperation. He stressed the need to maintain momentum in existing partnerships while venturing into new realms for mutual growth and stability.