External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has 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. He said member countries needed to make greater efforts to strengthen their economic partnerships and build resilient supply chains.
Dr Jaishankar was 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. He said, more connectivity corridors are good for business. Commonwealth partners should make more efforts to enhance local distribution.
Dr 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.
