India’s role as a first responder in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) was highlighted by foreign ambassadors during a panel discussion at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) in New Delhi.
The discussion was held on September 15 as part of the ICWA’s Silver Jubilee celebrations. Ambassadors from the Philippines, Bahrain, Italy, Chile and Uganda participated in a session on India’s role in world affairs.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Foreign ambassadors highlighted India’s role as a trusted and reliable partner.
The Philippines envoy described India as a first responder and preferred security partner.
India’s assistance to Filipino seafarers was highlighted.
India-Philippines maritime cooperation was discussed.
Bahrain’s ambassador highlighted cooperation involving Indian expertise.
The remarks were made during an ICWA Silver Jubilee panel discussion in New Delhi.
Philippines Ambassador to India Josel Francisco Ignacio described India as a responsible player, a preferred security partner and a first responder. He referred to India’s assistance to Filipino seafarers and highlighted the growing strategic and maritime partnership between India and the Philippines.
The Philippines envoy also highlighted India’s wider engagement with the ASEAN region, including cooperation in the maritime domain.
Bahrain Ambassador to India Abdulrahman Mohamed Ahmed Al Gaoud also highlighted India-Bahrain cooperation. He referred to the contribution of Indian expertise to Bahrain’s development.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The comments highlight the growing importance of India’s humanitarian, maritime, developmental and security partnerships with countries across Asia and other regions. India’s HADR capabilities have also become an important component of its wider regional engagement, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and with partner countries.
The ambassadors' remarks came amid wider recognition of India's role as a reliable partner across developmental, humanitarian, strategic and security-related areas.
India has increasingly used its military, diplomatic and civilian capabilities for humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and evacuation operations in the region and beyond
