Jaishankar Urges Stronger Multilateralism at P4M Summit at UNGA

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the inaugural Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity (P4M) Summit on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Jaishankar thanked European Council President António Costa for taking the initiative and said India was pleased to join the summit as a co-sponsor. The meeting comes as the international system faces mounting geopolitical pressures and challenges to international cooperation.

Addressing the gathering, Jaishankar said the global order is currently “under stress”, pointing to a long-term rebalancing of global power that has taken on a different character because of intense competition, geopolitical tensions and ongoing conflicts.

According to Jaishankar, if these developments remain unchecked, they could challenge the very spirit of international cooperation. He therefore underlined the importance of ensuring that multilateralism asserts itself strongly at the present juncture.

The P4M discussion comes against the backdrop of the 81st UN General Assembly, whose stated theme is “Restoring Trust, Managing
Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All.” The UN has identified renewed multilateralism and inclusive global governance among the key priorities for the current session.

Jaishankar’s remarks placed particular emphasis on the need to preserve international cooperation at a time of heightened geopolitical competition. The summit brings together participating countries around issues including multilateralism, international law, peace and prosperity.

India’s participation as a co-sponsor reflects its engagement with discussions on strengthening multilateral cooperation and the role of international institutions at a time of significant global change.

The minister’s address also comes as the 81st UNGA brings world leaders together to discuss peace and security, sustainable development, international law, human rights, climate action and global governance.

Addressed the inaugural ‘Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity (P4M) Summit’ #UNGA81#UNHighLevelWeek pic.twitter.com/eCNJnRT8HS

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 21, 2026