New Delhi - In a significant move to bolster India’s international relations, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar convened meetings with several counterparts during the opening of the Raisina Dialogue 2025, which commenced on March 17, 2025, in New Delhi. This premier conference focuses on geopolitics and geoeconomics, accentuating the need for collaboration among nations in a dynamic global environment.
On March 19, 2025, Jaishankar engaged in dialogue with Slovakia's Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár, where they tackled pivotal subjects including trade, investment, and cultural exchange. He expressed his gratitude for a Slovak translation of the Upanishad, illustrating a blending of cultural diplomacy with practical political negotiations. “Glad to meet FM Slovakia Juraj Blanár this evening. Spoke about trade, investment, mobility, education, infrastructure and culture,” Jaishankar remarked in a post on X, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the discussions.
During the same day, Jaishankar had a fruitful encounter with the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Cuba, Ed Mart Diaz. Their conversation revolved around development cooperation, especially focusing on healthcare and traditional medicine—an area where both countries see immense potential. The significance of health collaboration continues to grow, particularly in the shadow of global health challenges.
Notably, Jaishankar also met with Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, addressing the implementation of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) established between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) earlier in March 2024. This agreement represents a breakthrough as EFTA is the first European bloc to sign a formal trade pact with India, paving the way for a deeper economic relationship. Jaishankar noted, “Discussed implementation of TEPA, blue economy & education cooperation and Ukraine-related developments,” emphasizing the interconnectedness of international cooperation amid global challenges.
Jaishankar’s discussions with Dominique Hasler, the Foreign Minister of Liechtenstein, further annotated his diplomatic engagements. They reviewed the progress of TEPA, examined their collaboration in the United Nations, and assessed the ongoing situation surrounding Ukraine. “Very pleased to meet FM @DominiqueHasler of Liechtenstein this morning. Discussed the progress of TEPA, our cooperation in the UN and the Ukraine situation,” he wrote, highlighting critical alliances in Europe.
Moreover, his meetings extended to Georgia's Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili where the focus was on enhancing political, trade, investment, tourism, and educational collaboration. These interactions outline India’s commitment to fostering partnerships that yield mutual benefits across various domains.
Jaishankar also reported a productive conversation with Moldova's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi. Their dialogue culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on agricultural cooperation, underscoring bilateral efforts to improve agricultural practices and agricultural trade relations. He noted, “A good meeting with DPM & FM @MihaiPopsoi of Moldova. Discussed advancement of our bilateral and multilateral relations. Today’s signing of MoU on agriculture will further enhance our cooperation.”
The Raisina Dialogue 2025 serves not only as a platform for dialogue but also as a crucial junction for cultivating global relationships that affect a variety of sectors. The discussions surrounding trade, health, and cultural exchange paint a picture of India’s proactive stance on the global stage.
As an important facet of this dialogue, the engagement with the EFTA marks a pivotal commitment towards economic strategies that aim to unlock TEPA's full potential. The India-EFTA Desk has been inaugurated earlier this year to facilitate EFTA companies seeking to expand their businesses in India. This desk acts as a critical support structure, enhancing continuous dialogue between businesses and government and effectively promoting trade and investment, which is at the heart of India's external affairs policy.
Jaishankar's meetings during this critical forum reflect a holistic approach to foreign diplomacy. By engaging with numerous nations on topics ranging from cultural exchanges to economic ties, India aims to position itself as a vital player in regional and global affairs. The diplomatic momentum can indeed play a substantive role in shaping the future of international trade relations.
The talks that transpired amidst the Raisina Dialogue exemplify India's strategic priority of nurturing collaborative frameworks that not only advance economic interests but also address global challenges, ensuring that it remains a steadfast ally among emerging economies. As the ripple effects of these discussions unfold, the commitment shown by India to various nations signifies a robust engagement strategy poised for future success.
In a world that is witnessing multifaceted challenges and rapid transformations, the endeavors reflected during the Raisina Dialogue symbolize India’s stance as a pillar of cooperation amidst unpredictability, while paving the way for its enduring relationships worldwide. Through such engagements, India is setting the tone for 21st-century diplomacy.
