Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan has said that in an increasingly interconnected world, emerging challenges can not be effectively addressed by nations working in isolation. Interacting with participants of the fourth edition of the International Strategic Engagement Programme IN-STEP at the Uparashtrapati Bhawan today, Mr Radhakrishnan said the Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, one earth, one family and one future, reflects the collective well-being of people around the globe.

 

He said this philosophy provided an opportunity for the foundation during India’s G20 presidency and continues to guide India’s approach towards inclusive and cooperative international engagements.

 

Welcoming the delegates, including 25 delegates from 22 developing countries of the Global South, the Vice President highlighted the need for collective responses to emerging challenges in technology, cyberspace, artificial intelligence, energy and maritime security, climate change and supply chains. He called upon the participants to think globally, engage strategically and act in cohesion.

 

In his welcome address, Commandant, National Defence College Air Marshal Manish Kumar Gupta said, ‘National Defence College is the highest seat of strategic learning and plays a unique role in shaping strategic thought and leadership within the armed forces amongst senior officials of civil services and friendly foreign countries. He said, ‘The International Strategic Engagement Programme IN-STEP is an initiative aimed at promoting regional security and closer cooperation among like-minded nations.