Tensions and opportunities intertwined as New Delhi welcomed Arab foreign ministers for the second IAFMM. India’s EAM S. Jaishankar’s sit-down with Libyan counterpart Najm El-Deen El-Arbash stole the spotlight, blending crisis assessment with forward-looking collaboration.
Via X, Jaishankar shared: ‘Pleasure meeting Libya FM this afternoon. Advanced talks on trade, infra, energy cooperation. Grateful for Libya update; India’s call for diplomacy to sustain regional peace remains steadfast.’
Libya’s saga of strife—marked by civil war remnants and oil blockade threats—demands vigilant diplomacy. India’s stance prioritizes negotiation, protecting diaspora interests and trade routes.
Fresh off the plane Friday, El-Arbash got MEA’s nod: ‘His summit involvement boosts our shared future.’ Somalia’s Fiqi visit echoed this: ‘Set to enhance ties.’ Arab League’s Aboul Gheit, arriving Thursday, set the tone: ‘High-level meets affirm India-Arab solidarity.’
This confluence isn’t mere protocol; it’s strategic. India, importing 80% of its oil from the Middle East, eyes diversified sources like Libya. Infrastructure MoUs and energy JVs loom large.
Broader summit agenda tackles Yemen peace, Gulf security, and tech transfers. Jaishankar’s personal outreach—evident in multiple bilaterals—burnishes India’s mediator credentials.
From Mumbai’s traders to Delhi’s policymakers, Arab partnerships underpin India’s economy. As plenary nears, outcomes could reshape supply chains and alliances.
Ultimately, Jaishankar’s Libya dialogue exemplifies proactive diplomacy: turning challenges into bridges for prosperity and peace.