Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj held bilateral meetings with foreign ministers of seven countries, including the United Kingdom, on the sidelines of the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday.
The foreign ministers whom Swaraj met included Philip Hammond (United Kingdom), Evangelos Venizalos (Greece), Ali Karti (Sudan), Dunya Maumoon (Maldives), Borge Brende (Norway), Abdyldaev Erlan Bekeshovich (Kyrgyzstan) and Aminu Wali (Nigeria).
Swaraj discussed topical issues before the United Nations during the ongoing 69th session, including Security Council reforms on which India will press for a text-based process of negotiations in the Inter-Governmental Negotiations, the 11th round of which will commence during the current session.
Indian diplomats said that attempts will be made to re-invigorate the G4 and L-60
Swaraj also invited all countries to participate in the ambitious projects and proposals of the new government.
Discussion was also held on progress towards finalisation of the draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism -- one of the key issues of importance to India during this UNGA session.
Officials said ‘strong support’ was expressed during these meetings for India's permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council.
Swaraj is expected to meet several of her counterparts during her ten-day US trip and will be part of prime minister’s delegation this week.
During his US visit, Modi is expected to hold bilateral talks with counterparts from Bangladesh and Nepal as well as Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
