Jaishankar in France to attend G7 meeting with focus on West Asia crisis

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will travel to Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay in France from Thursday to Friday to attend the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the ministry of external affairs said on Wednesday.He will take part in the meeting at the invitation of France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot. Alongside the main sessions, Jaishankar is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with other foreign ministers. The meeting will focus on key global issues such as the war in Ukraine, reconstruction efforts, maritime security and reforms in global governance. French officials said the discussions are part of preparations for the G7 Leaders’ Summit scheduled in June.Ukraine is expected to be a major focus, with discussions on reconstruction and regional security. Officials said the sessions aim to deliver “impactful results”, including on nuclear safety, humanitarian demining and funding for rebuilding efforts. The role of international financial institutions in supporting Ukraine’s recovery will also be discussed.The talks will also cover broader concerns like maritime security and global supply chains. Reforms in global governance systems are also on the agenda.Apart from G7 members, partner countries including India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Brazil and Ukraine will also take part. The sessions will be held over Thursday and Friday, along with side meetings and working lunches to allow further discussions.