External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to address the UN General Assembly on September 26, with his speech coming against the backdrop of escalating Saudi-Houthi tensions, disruptions in the Red Sea and growing concerns over rising global energy costs.
The 81st UN General Assembly runs from September 8 to September 28, 2026. The theme is “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All”. The theme emphasises the need for restoration of trust.
On September 22-26 and 28, the 193 member states will address the Assembly.
UN News reports that conflicts, economic challenges, humanitarian crises, climate change, development and emerging technologies are expected to be important areas of discussion.
The ongoing Gulf conflicts are critical, mainly for India’s energy security, but a large part of its expatriate population also lives in these regions.
Saudi Arabia is facing an escalating Houthi crisis. This includes a disputed attack on Mecca and emergency air raid alerts over several cities.
Saudi Arabia’s UN ambassador has used the UN Security Council platform to voice the country’s concerns and condemnation.
The regional security concern also comes as India is pushing for a greater role in the UN. India has pressed for structural reform in the UN Security Council, arguing that both permanent and non-permanent seats must be expanded for better representation.
On July 13, he formally launched India’s campaign for a non-permanent UNSC seat for the 2028–29 term, under the theme “SHANTI Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust and Integrity.” India is competing for the single Asia-Pacific seat, with elections set for June 2027.
Beyond the General Debate speech, bilateral meetings also occur at the UNGA. Jaishankar will meet with counterparts from across the globe.
India’s stance and points of interest are yet to be revealed. India’s neutral position and references to the Red Sea crisis and energy disruptions will be clear in his speech.
