Prime Minister Narendra Modi, initially expected to address the UN General Assembly (UNGA) session in 2024, will not be delivering the speech. Instead, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India at the event. The decision follows a revised UN speaker list issued in September 2024. While Modi’s absence marks a change in India’s representation at the UN, he remains active in international forums, including an address at the Summit of the Future. Jaishankar’s address will take place on September 28, focusing on critical global issues.
Modi’s Engagements at the UN and International Forums
Modi will still participate in major events preceding the UNGA General Debate. On September 22 and 23, Modi will speak at the UN’s “Summit of the Future,” highlighting India’s vision on pressing global challenges such as climate change, digital governance, and international peacekeeping efforts. Modi’s visit is strategically significant ahead of India’s upcoming elections and presents India’s growing influence in global governance.
Additionally, Modi will address a large Indian diaspora event on September 22 at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Long Island, New York. This event is part of Modi’s efforts to strengthen India’s global diaspora connections and project India’s soft power abroad.
S. Jaishankar’s Role at the UNGA 2024
Jaishankar’s speech at the UNGA is expected to focus on India’s role as a growing global leader and its contributions to world peace, climate initiatives, and economic cooperation. As India strengthens its position in global diplomacy, Jaishankar will likely advocate for reforming international institutions such as the UN Security Council, reflecting India’s aspirations for a permanent seat.
Jaishankar has been instrumental in shaping India’s foreign policy under Modi’s administration. His speech at the UNGA is expected to align with India’s global ambitions, particularly in areas such as the Digital Global Compact and future governance frameworks underpinned by international law.
UNGA 2024 Agenda
The 79th session of the UNGA will run from September 24 to 30, 2024. Brazil, in keeping with tradition, will open the General Debate, followed by U.S. President Joe Biden, who will deliver a key address ahead of the November 2024 U.S. elections.
India’s participation in this year’s debate is particularly crucial, as it aligns with the adoption of the “Pact for the Future.” This pact will lay out a new global framework for the coming decades, emphasizing collaboration on issues such as climate change, technological innovation, and geopolitical stability. India, under Modi’s leadership, aims to be a significant voice in these discussions.
As India’s global footprint continues to expand, Jaishankar’s speech will be a critical moment at the 79th UNGA. His address will not only reflect India’s current foreign policy priorities but also set the stage for future collaborations with global leaders on key issues such as climate resilience, digital transformation, and global security.
