External Affairs Minister to Represent India Amid Busy Diplomatic Season and Trade Tensions
The Government of India confirms that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not deliver India’s national statement at the General Debate of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) later this month. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar will instead represent India and address the Assembly on September 27, 2025, in New York.
Background and Initial Expectations
The provisional UNGA list of speakers released in July had included Prime Minister Modi among those scheduled to speak on September 26. His absence in the revised schedule led to speculation regarding the reasons behind the decision. The Ministry of External Affairs has clarified that the decision was taken keeping in view the Prime Minister’s intense diplomatic calendar and the need for India to be effectively represented by its External Affairs Minister.
Key Reasons for the Change
- Busy Diplomatic Calendar:
This year’s UNGA session coincides with one of the most crowded global diplomatic seasons, with multiple high-level summits on global conflicts, climate action, AI governance, and sustainable development. Given the range of India’s international engagements and bilateral priorities, the Prime Minister’s schedule required careful adjustment. - Scheduling and Procedural Revisions:
Modi’s removal from the updated UNGA speaker list is consistent with the United Nations’ procedural flexibility, which allows member states to finalize their representation closer to the event. India has opted for continuity of strong representation through Dr. Jaishankar. - Geopolitical Context and U.S. Relations:
The backdrop of escalating trade tensions with the United States, following President Donald Trump’s decision to impose tariffs of up to 50% on Indian imports, is also a factor. The U.S. administration has criticized India’s continued purchases of Russian oil, linking it indirectly to Moscow’s war efforts in Ukraine.
While Prime Minister Modi has reaffirmed that U.S.–India relations remain “very positive,” a high-profile bilateral appearance alongside President Trump at the UNGA would have been diplomatically sensitive. By delegating India’s UNGA representation, the government avoids potential awkwardness while trade talks remain ongoing. - India’s Balanced Foreign Policy:
Modi’s recent participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China — his first visit there in seven years — has drawn global attention. The visit signalled a thaw in India–China relations, even as New Delhi continues to strengthen ties with Washington. India is navigating a delicate balancing act between its partnerships with the U.S., China, and Russia.
Representation by External Affairs Minister
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, a seasoned diplomat and former ambassador to both the U.S. and China, will articulate India’s positions at the UNGA. His speech is expected to cover issues including:
- Reform of multilateral institutions
- Peace and security in the Global South
- India’s stance on trade and technology governance
- Sustainable development and climate commitments
- Global conflicts, particularly the Ukraine war and Middle East instability
Official Statement
“The Prime Minister’s absence should not be seen as a retreat from multilateral engagement,” a senior government source noted. “India remains fully committed to shaping the global agenda, and Dr. Jaishankar will carry forward India’s voice on the world stage.”
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s decision not to address the UNGA this year reflects a combination of a heavily packed diplomatic calendar, scheduling revisions, and the broader context of delicate U.S.–India relations amid tariff disputes. By entrusting the External Affairs Minister with the task, India ensures continuity of representation while allowing the Prime Minister to focus on parallel priorities in global diplomacy.