New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar today engaged with the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) Officer Trainees of the 2025 batch along with two Bhutanese diplomats, emphasizing the importance of developing the skills and aptitude required for a diplomatic career.
In a post on social media platform X, Dr. Jaishankar said:
“Delighted to interact with Indian Foreign Service Officer Trainees of the 2025 batch and two Bhutanese diplomats. Shared my diplomatic experiences and encouraged them to develop the skills and aptitude for their calling. Extended my good wishes as they begin their careers in service.”
Delighted to interact with Indian Foreign Service Officer Trainees of the 2025 batch and two Bhutanese diplomats.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 2, 2025
Shared my diplomatic experiences and encouraged them to develop the skills and aptitude for their calling.
Extended my good wishes as they begin their careers in… pic.twitter.com/yG4gnwMkHX
The interaction offered trainees insights into diplomatic challenges, international relations, and professional conduct, marking an important moment as they begin their careers in serving their nations.
Extending Greetings to Laos on Golden Jubilee
In addition to mentoring the IFS trainees, Dr. Jaishankar extended warm felicitations to Laos on the Golden Jubilee of its National Day.
In his message, he wrote:
“Felicitations to FM Thongsavanh Phomvihane, the Government and people of Lao PDR on the Golden Jubilee of their National Day. Dedicated to advancing our civilizational bonds.”
India’s Cultural Diplomacy in Laos
Dr. Jaishankar highlighted India’s ongoing cultural cooperation with Laos by sharing images of restoration work at the Vat Phou World Heritage site in Lao PDR.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is leading efforts to restore and conserve this historical monument, showcasing India’s commitment to preserving shared heritage and fostering cultural ties.
India-UN Development Partnership Grant to Laos
Further strengthening bilateral engagement, the Indian government extended a grant of approximately USD 1 million to Lao PDR under the India-UN Development Partnership Fund.
The grant, provided on February 28, 2025, supports the project titled: “Strengthening Large-Scale Food Fortification: The Case of Investing in Rice Fortification.”
This initiative reflects India’s sustained focus on development cooperation, heritage conservation, and capacity-building in Laos.
