India co-sponsored the inaugural Partners for Multilateralism (P4M) Summit at the United Nations in New York on 22 September 2026. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar co-chaired the summit, which was held on the margins of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Partners for Multilateralism Initiative
The Partners for Multilateralism is a flexible and open framework for countries that support UN-based multilateralism. The initiative was founded by the European Union, Brazil, Kenya, and Canada, and it seeks cooperation across divides on reform-oriented issues.
India’s Role and Co-Sponsors
India was among the co-sponsors of the summit along with Australia, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Kenya, and the European Union. The summit placed India within a group of states that support multilateral cooperation through the United Nations system.
Key Themes Discussed at the Summit
The summit discussed the need for stronger multilateralism, reforms in global decision-making, and wider participation in international institutions. It also covered the 4F crisis, which refers to fuel, food, fertiliser, and finance, along with safeguards for emerging technologies and diversification of supply chains.
Important Facts for Exams
- The United Nations General Assembly is the main deliberative organ of the United Nations and meets annually in New York.
- The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly was the setting for the inaugural P4M meeting in 2026.
- The term 4F crisis refers to fuel, food, fertiliser, and finance.
- International law, rules, and norms are central themes in multilateral diplomacy and UN-based cooperation.
Multilateralism in Global Affairs
Multilateralism refers to cooperation among three or more states through shared institutions, rules, and procedures. The United Nations remains the principal global platform for multilateral diplomacy, peace, and international law.
