• UGI USER
  • Jul 26, 2024
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MEA CRITICISES KERALA’S APPOINTMENT OF EXTERNAL COOPERATION OFFICER

Why in the news?

  • Kerala appointed senior IAS officer K. Vasuki as “external cooperation” officer on July 15.
  • MEA reminded states not to intrude into foreign affairs, which are beyond state jurisdiction.
  • BJP criticised Kerala’s Left Democratic Front (LDF) government for the appointment.
source:medium

About Constitutional Clarification by MEA:

  • MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized foreign affairs fall under the Union Government as per the Constitution.
  • Foreign policy and external cooperation are not state or concurrent subjects.
  • States are stakeholders but ultimate foreign policy decisions are made by the Central Government.

Key points:Ministry of External Affairs (MEA):

  • Central government agency for India’s foreign relations.
  • Headed by the Minister of External Affairs, a cabinet member.
  • Reports directly to the Prime Minister.
  • Formulates and implements foreign policy.
  • Promotes India’s interests abroad.
  • Fosters friendly international relations.
About Union List (7th Schedule):

  • Details subjects on which Parliament can legislate.
  • Includes 100 subjects (up from 97).
  • Covers national importance areas such as defence, foreign affairs, and atomic energy.
  • Central government has exclusive jurisdiction over these subjects.