Jaishankar calls for diversified supply chains, stronger economic ties among Commonwealth nations

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday called on Commonwealth countries to de-risk and diversify their supply chains, emphasising the need for shorter, trusted routes, improved connectivity and stronger local distribution networks to promote trade and economic cooperation.

Addressing the Commonwealth Heads of Government and Business Leaders Breakfast Meeting on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, Jaishankar said member countries needed to make greater efforts to strengthen their economic partnerships and build resilient supply chains.

“Commonwealth partners also need to de-risk and diversify. This requires shorter and trusted supply chains,” he said in a post on X following the meeting.

“More connectivity corridors are good for business. Commonwealth partners should make more efforts to enhance local distribution,” he added.

Jaishankar also called for greater focus on vocational training and capacity building, saying these would provide member countries with more options. He described the Indian business community spread across the world as an important asset for the Commonwealth.

Highlighting the role of technology in economic development, the External Affairs Minister said digital solutions could be a game changer in promoting efficiency, good governance and growth.

He also called for leveraging multilateral initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) to advance joint climate action.

Drawing on India’s experience in providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), Jaishankar underscored the need to establish local hubs to strengthen disaster response capabilities.

He further identified mobility of skills as an important area of cooperation among Commonwealth countries, noting that closer ties and familiarity within the grouping could help generate business opportunities and promote shared prosperity.

On the sidelines of CHOGM, Jaishankar held a series of bilateral engagements with leaders of Commonwealth countries.

He met Guyana President Irfaan Ali and reviewed the progress in bilateral cooperation, particularly following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Caribbean nation in 2024. Jaishankar announced an extension of a US$500 million Line of Credit for road, healthcare and defence projects in Guyana.

The two countries also signed agreements concerning the supply and installation of manufacturing projects for micro and small enterprises, grant assistance for Quick Impact Projects, and cooperation in digital public infrastructure, including the development of a UPI-like payment system in Guyana.

Jaishankar also met United Kingdom Prime Minister Andy Burnham and discussed ways to strengthen the economic partnership between the two countries in the context of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), as well as the broader global situation. He conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm wishes to his British counterpart.

He also interacted with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the summit.

The External Affairs Minister further interacted with members of the Indian community in Antigua and Barbuda, appreciating their contribution to strengthening ties between the two countries. He also met Governor General Sir Rodney Williams at the community function.

This year’s CHOGM is being held under the theme ‘Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth’.

(With inputs from agencies)

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