New Delhi buzzed with diplomatic fervor on Friday as the second India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (IAFMM) kicked off, drawing top envoys from across the Arab world. India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar held a key bilateral meeting with Libya’s Foreign Minister Najm El-Deen El-Arbash, focusing on deepening ties and addressing the North African nation’s volatile situation.
Jaishankar shared photos of the encounter on X, highlighting productive discussions on expanding cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and energy sectors. ‘Great meeting with FM of Libya, H.E. Mr. Najm El-Deen El-Arbash this afternoon. Good conversation on advancing our cooperation in trade, infrastructure and energy. Thank him for the briefing on the situation in Libya. Emphasised India’s advocacy for dialogue and diplomacy to maintain peace and stability in the region,’ he posted.
The meeting comes at a pivotal time for Libya, grappling with political divisions and instability since the 2011 uprising. Jaishankar’s emphasis on diplomacy underscores India’s balanced approach to regional conflicts, prioritizing stability for economic partnerships.
Libya’s Foreign Minister arrived in New Delhi alongside counterparts from Somalia and other nations. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) welcomed El-Arbash, noting his participation would inject positive momentum into bilateral relations. ‘His participation in the India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and programmes in New Delhi will provide positive momentum to our bilateral relations,’ MEA posted on X.
Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi also landed in the capital, receiving a warm reception. MEA stated his visit would further strengthen ties between the two countries, building on historical connections.
Earlier, League of Arab States Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit arrived on Thursday for the summit and related engagements. MEA extended a hearty welcome, underscoring the high-level talks as a testament to shared commitment for a robust India-Arab partnership across domains.
‘Pleased to welcome Secretary General of the League of Arab States, H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, who is here in New Delhi for the 2nd India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and related meetings. The high-level engagements over the next two days reflect our shared commitment to a strong India-Arab partnership across all domains,’ read the MEA post.
This summit reinforces India’s growing influence in West Asia, fostering multilateral dialogue amid global uncertainties. As discussions unfold, expectations are high for concrete outcomes in energy security, trade enhancement, and regional peace initiatives.
