External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has urged Commonwealth countries to diversify their supply chains through shorter and trusted routes, saying that better connectivity would boost trade and business.

Addressing a meeting of business leaders during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2026 in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, he stressed the need for stronger local distribution networks, skill development and capacity building.

In a social media post, Dr. Jaishankar said India’s global business community was an asset for the Commonwealth. He also highlighted digital technology as a driver of efficiency, good governance and growth.

He called for greater cooperation on climate action through the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, stressing the need for local hubs to support humanitarian assistance. The Commonwealth of Nations is a voluntary association of 56 sovereign member states spanning Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe and the Pacific.