India charts 2047 diplomacy, China focus at MEA meet

New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs hosted the annual Heads of Mission Conference here from April 28 to 30 to hold brainstorming sessions on thematic issues - India's Neighbourhood, China and West Asia crisis besides multipolarity.

A key focus of the conference was about preparing Indian diplomacy to achieve 2047 goal of Vikshit Bharat, ET has learnt. Interestingly, there was no discussion on Quad and associated issues at the three-day meet.

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'Dimensions of China's Influence' and 'Promoting Multipolarity' were given prominence at the meeting given India's interests and foreign policy approach, ET has learnt.

The conference brought together all Indian envoys from across the world, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi joining the deliberations on Thursday. The meeting was also addressed by NSA Ajit Doval. Doval addressed security priorities, while Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan updated on India's armed forces' capabilities and reforms.

On Wednesday External Affairs Minister addressed the meeting. Later on a social media post he wrote, "Addressed India's High Commissioners, Ambassadors and senior MEA officials at the 11th Heads of Missions Conference in New Delhi.

Our interaction recognised the significant expansion of India's engagement with the world in the last decade. In a volatile and turbulent world, Indian diplomacy stands ready to advance national interest and secure national goals."

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The conference also focussed on discussions on addressing the severe economic repercussions of the ongoing crisis and blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

Senior MEA officials discussed the ground-level implementation of foreign policy initiatives, including economic diplomacy and boosting FDI. The conference has evolved into a results-driven platform, setting "Key Performance Indicators" for diplomats and focusing on "Effective Diplomacy, Excellent Delivery"