'India ready to shape global outcomes,' External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar tells envoys
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The dinner, which took place at a Delhi hotel, also saw Pakistan's attendance. Pakistan's Deputy High Commissioner Syed Haider Shah represented his country.
The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday hosted dinner for all heads of missions. It was presided over by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.
The event was a welcome dinner during which Jaishankar spoke about Indian foreign policy and had informal chats with many envoys.
Outlining the focus for the next five years, the EAM highlighted how New Delhi is ready to share global responsibilities and be part of shaping global outcomes from climate change to maritime security.
He explained how India will be working on its global footprint, starting with the immediate neighbourhood under the neighbourhood first policy, towards the east with Act East and other parts of the world from Pacific to Africa to Europe.
He said New Delhi is keen on initiating partnerships across the world as part of India's transformation. Past few years have seen PM Modi inviting countries such as Japan, Germany, France, Israel to be part of India's flagship programmes such as 'Make In India', smart cities, etc
"It was a gesture highly valued by the DC that minister Jaishankar offered us this dinner. The minister was very close and warm, approaching to greet each table and talking with us", Coromoto Godoy Calderon, Venezuelan envoy to India told WION. Adding, "I was very impressed by his kindness".
The dinner which took place at a Delhi hotel also saw Pakistan in attendance. Pakistan's Deputy High Commissioner Syed Haider Shah was representing his country.
Remember, Pakistan's new envoy Moin-ul-Haq still hasn't taken charge. Former Pak High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood went on to become new Pak foreign secretary leaving the position vacant.
New Delhi has sent a clear message to Pakistan to act on terror, only then any talks can happen. Many would see there is no point reading too much in India's invite to Pakistan's DHC.
During the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit last week, PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan exchanged pleasantries but no meeting or pull-aside happened.
Ties between the two nuclear neighbours have slid in a downward trajectory in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack. The responsibility of the attack was claimed by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.
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