SOFIA, Jun 11: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday reiterated India’s position that dialogue and diplomacy remain the most effective means of addressing international disputes, as he highlighted growing global instability driven by conflicts, economic disruptions and security challenges.
Speaking after discussions with Bulgarian Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova-Chamova, Jaishankar said the international community is navigating an increasingly uncertain environment marked by geopolitical tensions, economic vulnerabilities and persistent threats to global stability.
Emphasising India’s long-standing approach to international crises, the minister said New Delhi continues to believe that armed confrontations cannot provide lasting solutions and that diplomatic engagement remains the preferred path for resolving disputes.
He noted that ongoing conflicts have generated concerns extending beyond security matters, affecting trade networks, economic growth and the well-being of populations worldwide. According to Jaishankar, strengthening supply chain resilience and diversifying economic partnerships have become critical priorities for countries seeking to mitigate risks arising from geopolitical instability.
The minister also stressed the importance of safeguarding maritime commerce, describing uninterrupted shipping routes as essential for global trade and economic stability. He said international waterways must remain secure to ensure the smooth movement of goods, energy resources and critical supplies.
Highlighting India’s role as a leading voice of the Global South, Jaishankar said New Delhi has consistently raised concerns relating to energy security, food availability and fertiliser supplies, particularly for developing nations that are often disproportionately affected by global crises.
On counter-terrorism, he reaffirmed India’s call for a zero-tolerance approach, stating that the international community must remain united in confronting the threat posed by terrorism in all its forms.
The External Affairs Minister said his discussions with the Bulgarian leadership reflected broad convergence on several global and regional issues. He noted that both countries shared similar perspectives on promoting stability, economic cooperation and adherence to international norms.
During his visit, Jaishankar held meetings with senior Bulgarian leaders, including President Rumen Radev and Foreign Minister Petrova-Chamova. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral engagement across diverse sectors and exploring opportunities arising from India’s expanding partnership with the European Union.
The two sides reviewed existing cooperation and examined prospects for further collaboration in trade, investment, technology, mobility and strategic affairs. Jaishankar highlighted the potential benefits of closer economic ties, particularly in light of ongoing negotiations for a comprehensive India-European Union free trade agreement.
He also discussed developments relating to strategic cooperation, defence engagement and mobility frameworks aimed at facilitating greater exchanges between India and European partners.
The visit forms part of India’s broader diplomatic outreach in Europe as New Delhi seeks to deepen political, economic and strategic partnerships across the continent.
Following the conclusion of his engagements in Bulgaria, Jaishankar is scheduled to travel to Finland, where he will participate in the 14th edition of the Kultaranta Talks. The annual forum will focus on the theme, “A World in Transition: Global, Regional and Local Perspectives,” bringing together policymakers and experts to discuss emerging international challenges.
The minister is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with Finnish leaders and senior officials during the visit, continuing India’s efforts to strengthen engagement with Nordic countries and advance cooperation on issues of mutual interest.
Jaishankar’s remarks in Sofia come at a time when multiple international crises are reshaping geopolitical dynamics and prompting renewed calls for diplomacy, economic resilience and collective action to address global challenges.