External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed military leaders on Tuesday, stressing the importance of adapting to changing geopolitical situations and advocating for enhanced governmental coordination in national security matters.
Speaking at the Army Commanders’ Conference 2024, Jaishankar talked about the need for a “whole-of-government” approach to advance national security. He “urged the leadership to be prepared to adapt to rapidly evolving geopolitical threats and opportunities and emphasised the importance of technological advancements and the lessons drawn from ongoing global conflicts in shaping India’s strategic posture”.
The conference took place amid the final stages of troop disengagement at Demchok and Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh, following an agreement between India and China.
Jaishankar’s address, titled ‘Global and Geopolitical Intricacies: Opportunities for India and Expectations from the Armed Forces’, focused on “contradictions and challenges of the current world order” and outlined expectations for military preparedness in addressing contemporary challenges. The external affairs minister also talked about the significance of technological advancement and learning from ongoing global conflicts.
Later, Jaishankar posted on X, “Pleased to address the Army Commanders Conference in Delhi today. Discussed the intricacies of current geopolitics, as well as its challenges, possibilities and opportunities. Urged that a more ‘whole of the Government’ approach is needed to effectively advance national security.”
The ministry of defence reaffirmed the Indian Army‘s commitment to readiness and adaptability, noting that the leadership aims to accelerate ongoing transformational initiatives and contribute to national endeavors.
The chief of defence staff Gen Anil Chauhan also addressed the conference, highlighting the importance of jointness and integration across domains for future warfare and effective operations. The conference also saw senior Army officials discussing crucial strategic matters related to border and internal security.