'Trajectory of Ukraine conflict is matter of profound concern': Jaishankar at UNSC

Speaking at the UN Security Council, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, "The trajectory of the Ukraine conflict is a matter of profound concern for the entire international community. The outlook appears truly disturbing."

"The nuclear issue is particular anxiety. In a globalized world, the impact of the conflict is being felt even in distant regions. We have all experienced its consequences in terms of surging costs and actual shortages of foodgrains, fertilizers and fuel.

"On this score too, there are good grounds to be worried about what awaits us. The global south, especially, is feeling the pain very acutely. We must therefore not initiate measures that further complicate the struggling global economy and that is why India strongly reiterates the need for an immediate cessation of all hostilities and a return to dialogue and diplomacy" he said.

Jaishankar said as Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized, this cannot be an era of war.

"On our part, we are also providing both humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and economic support to some of our neighbours under economic distress," he said.

The briefing at the 15-member body, chaired by French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna, was held Thursday as world leaders gathered in the UN headquarters for the high-level 77th session of the UN General Assembly.

Concluding his remark, Jaishankar reiterated: "Once again, let me emphasize Madam President, that the need of the hour is to end this conflict in Ukraine and return to the negotiating table."

"This Council is the most powerful contemporary symbol of diplomacy. It must continue to live up to its purpose. The global order that we all subscribe to, is based on international law, UN Charter and respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all States," he said.