On February 6, H.E. Mr Philemon Yang, the President of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), met with the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
The occasion marked a significant moment in global diplomacy, as the two leaders engaged in discussions covering international cooperation, sustainable development, and the future of the United Nations.
During their meeting, the President of India warmly welcomed Mr Yang to the country, highlighting the importance of his leadership during the UNGA session.
She noted that his tenure coincides with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations’ establishment, which is a momentous milestone for the international community.
The year 2025 will be pivotal for global diplomacy, with key UN conferences such as the Fourth Conference on Financing for Development and the Third UN Ocean Conference.
President Murmu assured Mr Yang that India would actively participate and contribute to the success of these upcoming global platforms.
A core focus of the conversation was the reform of multilateral institutions, particularly the UN Security Council. President Murmu emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive reform to ensure that these institutions are more representative of the current global realities.
She highlighted the importance of making multilateral bodies more inclusive, especially in light of the evolving geopolitical landscape.
The President also expressed her appreciation for Mr Yang's leadership, particularly his focus on science and data-driven approaches to sustainable development.
She commended his inclusive vision for the future, noting his role in advancing the “Pact for the Future” at the Summit for the Future held in New York in September 2024.
This initiative is seen as a step toward promoting long-term, sustainable global development through collaboration and innovative solutions.
In line with India’s commitment to the Global South, President Murmu reiterated that India would continue to champion the causes of developing nations at international forums, guided by the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”—the belief that the world is one family.
This vision aligns with India’s foreign policy, which advocates for unity, cooperation, and shared responsibility in addressing global challenges.
The leaders also discussed the strong and growing bilateral relations between India and Cameroon. These ties have flourished over the years, particularly in areas such as development partnership and capacity building.
President Murmu noted that India shares a deep, enduring bond with Africa and highlighted the significance of India’s leadership during its Presidency of the G-20 in 2023, which saw the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member.
This move reinforced India’s commitment to strengthening Africa’s role in global governance.
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