Jaishankar urges Commonwealth partners to 'de-risk and diversify'

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has urged Commonwealth partners to "de-risk and diversify", emphasising the need to enhance local distribution among member nations.

Jaishankar arrived in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda, on Tuesday to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

"Commonwealth partners also need to de-risk and diversify. This requires shorter and trusted supply chains," Jaishankar posted on social media after attending the Commonwealth heads of government and business leaders' breakfast meeting on Wednesday.

Jaishankar said Commonwealth partners need to make more efforts to enhance local distribution, adding that more connectivity corridors are good for business.

"Promote training and capacity building as it gives more options for partners," he said.

EAM said that the Indian business community spread across the world is an asset for the Commonwealth.

Speaking about the significance of digital public infrastructure for good governance, Jaishankar said, "Digital is a game changer as it promotes efficiency, good governance and growth."

"International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure can be leveraged for climate action," Jaishankar said.

Sharing India's experiences in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), Jaishankar said, "Our First Responder experiences and HADR activities suggest the need for local hubs."

He said that comfort within the Commonwealth nations "can build business for growth and prosperity", adding that mobility of skills can be an important Commonwealth focus.

The theme of this year's CHOGM is accelerating partnerships and investment for a prosperous Commonwealth.

Jaishankar also met with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Andy Burnham and the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, on the sidelines of CHOGM.

He discussed the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the UK PM Burnham.

"Discussed strengthening our economic partnership in the context of CETA, as well as the global landscape," Jaishankar posted on social media after meeting with Burnham.

EAM also interacted with the members of the Indian community in Antigua and Barbuda.

"Appreciate their contribution to strengthening the bonds between our two countries," he posted on social media.

He also met Governor General Sir Rodney Williams of Antigua and Barbuda at the Indian community function.