India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 26, 2026, with India’s position on terrorism, global governance, emerging technologies, international security and the interests of the Global South taking centre stage.
Jaishankar’s address came against the backdrop of continuing geopolitical tensions, conflicts and disruption to global trade and energy flows. India has also been pushing for reforms to make international institutions more representative and responsive.
S Jaishankar UNGA Speech: Key Issues
The External Affairs Minister’s UNGA engagement focused on several issues that have remained central to India’s foreign policy, including counter-terrorism, reform of multilateral institutions, maritime security and the concerns of developing countries.
Jaishankar has repeatedly argued during India’s UNGA engagements that the existing international system needs to become more representative and transparent.
Earlier during the UNGA week, he described the Global South as being in the “front row” of global crises but the “back row” of decision-making, calling for greater participation of developing countries in global institutions.
Jaishankar Takes Aim at Pakistan Over Terrorism
Terrorism was one of the most prominent India-Pakistan issues surrounding this year’s UNGA. India’s diplomatic response came after Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the General Assembly and raised issues including Kashmir.
Jaishankar has previously responded strongly to questions concerning Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorism. During a media interaction on the sidelines of UNGA, he rejected a question from a Pakistani journalist by referring to Pakistan in connection with terrorism.
India has consistently maintained that Pakistan-based terrorist groups have been responsible for attacks against India, while Pakistan has rejected such allegations.
Jaishankar on Global South and UN Reform
India has also used the UNGA platform to push for reforms to global institutions.
Jaishankar has argued that the current international system does not adequately reflect the changing distribution of economic and political influence.
At a Partners for Multilateralism summit during the UNGA week, he said the global order was under stress because of geopolitical tensions, competition and conflicts. He called for stronger multilateralism and more participative and transparent decision-making.
AI, Maritime Security and Emerging Technologies
Emerging technology was another major issue in India’s UNGA engagement.
Jaishankar highlighted both the opportunities and security risks associated with artificial intelligence, particularly in the maritime domain. He said AI-driven systems could create challenges involving accountability and the speed at which governments may have to respond to incidents.
India has also stressed freedom of navigation and the safety of commercial shipping and seafarers amid disruptions affecting important maritime routes.
What Was India’s Larger Message at UNGA 2026?
India’s UNGA messaging has centred on a combination of national interests and broader calls for reform of the international system.
The government has sought greater representation for the Global South, stronger action against terrorism, reforms to multilateral institutions and international cooperation on emerging technologies and security.
Jaishankar’s UNGA appearance therefore comes at a time when India is attempting to position itself as an active participant in debates involving global security, economic stability and institutional reform.
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FAQs
When did S Jaishankar address the UNGA in 2026?
S Jaishankar addressed the 81st UN General Assembly in New York on September 26, 2026.
What were the major issues raised by Jaishankar?
Major issues surrounding India’s UNGA engagement included terrorism, multilateralism, Global South representation, maritime security and emerging technologies.
What did Jaishankar say about Pakistan?
Jaishankar strongly rejected questions and allegations concerning India’s role in terrorism and reiterated India’s position regarding Pakistan-linked terrorism.
What is India’s position on UN reform?
India has advocated more representative, participative and transparent global institutions, including reform of the UN Security Council.
