Jaishankar calls for reformed multilateralism at P4M Summit in New York
At the P4M Summit on the UNGA sidelines, EAM S. Jaishankar pressed for stronger multilateral cooperation and reforms to global institutions.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has called for reinforced multilateral cooperation and reform of global institutions, cautioning that the international order is under mounting strain from intense competition, geopolitical tensions and continuing conflicts.
Speaking at the Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace & Prosperity (P4M) Summit in New York, held on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, Mr. Jaishankar said multilateralism needed to be strengthened to sustain international cooperation and respond to emerging global challenges. The summit was co-chaired by Mr. Jaishankar and European Council President António Costa.
Mr. Jaishankar drew attention to what he described as the 4F crisis of Fuel, Food, Fertiliser and Finance, saying it could not be left unaddressed. He argued that where there is a risk of chokepoint dominance and disruption, de-risking and diversification should be encouraged, and that like-minded countries must be willing to come together when a compelling cause or a powerful case exists.
He added that multilateralism is best served when international law, rules and norms are scrupulously observed, and reiterated that more participative deliberations and transparent decision-making are overdue.
The P4M initiative, founded by the leaders of the European Union, Brazil, Kenya and Canada, is expected to make its pitch at the UN General Assembly's high-level debate this week. In a joint editorial, the grouping said it would not create another exclusive bloc or international bureaucracy.
Its purpose, the co-authors wrote, is the opposite: to build a flexible, open framework for countries from different regions and political traditions that are willing to work across divides, form coalitions for reform and turn shared principles into practical action. They noted that 2025 recorded the highest number of state-based armed conflicts since 1946, spread across 35 countries, along with the highest recorded military spending of nearly $3 trillion.