External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar will lead India’s delegation during the High-Level Week of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Jaishankar is scheduled to address the high-level session of the UN General Assembly on September 26. He will also participate in several plurilateral and bilateral meetings during his visit.
UN General Debate to Begin on September 22
The annual General Debate of the 81st UN General Assembly is scheduled from September 22 to 28. During the high-level gathering, heads of state, heads of government and other senior representatives from the UN’s 193 member states will present their countries’ priorities and positions on major international issues.
The 81st session is being held under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all.” The United Nations says the session will focus on strengthening global cooperation, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and encouraging collective action on issues including peace, dignity and equality.
Global Issues to Take Centre Stage
The High-Level Week will provide a platform for discussions on a wide range of international challenges. The UN’s schedule includes high-level meetings covering climate action, sea-level rise, pandemic preparedness and the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development, alongside the General Debate.
The General Debate is expected to bring together world leaders for discussions on conflicts, development, climate-related concerns, humanitarian challenges and other major issues affecting the international community.
Antonio Guterres to Attend Final UN General Assembly as Secretary-General
UN Secretary-General António Guterres is attending the 81st General Assembly during the final months of his tenure. The UN has described the gathering as an opportunity to strengthen international cooperation and advance collective action on global challenges.
The General Assembly’s 81st session opened on September 8, 2026, and will continue until September 7, 2027. Bangladesh’s Khalilur Rahman is serving as President of the 81st session.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information released by the Ministry of External Affairs and official United Nations sources. Details regarding schedules, meetings and diplomatic engagements may change due to official updates. Readers should refer to the MEA and UN for the latest confirmed information.