India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, recently spoke at Chatham House, offering a candid and insightful take on India’s evolving role in global geopolitics. Addressing issues ranging from India’s ties with major world powers to regional dynamics and economic aspirations, Jaishankar emphasized India's strategic independence and its growing global influence.
India and the Shifting Global Order
Jaishankar highlighted the ongoing shift towards multipolarity, where global power is increasingly diffused among multiple nations rather than concentrated in a single superpower. He noted that while the United States is reassessing its global role, India is positioning itself as a significant independent force.
"Since 1945, people have tended to think of the United States as part of a Western bloc rather than just a nation. But today, the U.S. sees itself more as a national power, with a more independent perspective," Jaishankar observed. He pointed out that this shift aligns with India's interests, as New Delhi has always advocated for a multipolar world where multiple power centers coexist.
India’s Relations with the U.S., China, and Russia
On India's relationship with the U.S., Jaishankar expressed optimism, noting that India and the U.S. share common interests in technology, energy stability, and global security. He also reaffirmed India's participation in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), which includes the U.S., Japan, and Australia, calling it a model of fair burden-sharing among allies.
Regarding China, Jaishankar acknowledged ongoing tensions but mentioned that diplomatic efforts are being made to stabilize relations. He noted that India remains open to improving ties, provided that border disputes and other concerns are addressed.
On Russia, Jaishankar defended India’s continued economic ties, particularly in energy trade, emphasizing that global energy stability requires multiple players to remain engaged in the market. He also reiterated India's pragmatic approach to the Ukraine conflict, advocating for direct negotiations between the warring parties while maintaining relations with both Russia and Ukraine.
Regional Challenges and India’s Neighborhood Policy
India's immediate neighborhood remains complex, with economic crises in Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, and ongoing security concerns in Afghanistan and Myanmar. Jaishankar underlined India's proactive role in supporting neighboring countries, citing India's financial assistance to Sri Lanka during its economic crisis as an example of regional responsibility.
He also stressed the importance of connectivity in South Asia, noting that India's infrastructure investments in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar are transforming regional trade and energy dynamics. However, he emphasized that while India is committed to helping its neighbors, reciprocal respect for India's interests is essential.
Kashmir and Internal Dynamics
On the issue of Kashmir, Jaishankar dismissed allegations of repression, asserting that Kashmir is an integral part of India and that the situation there is improving. He rejected external interference, stating that the region's affairs are India's internal matter.
Economic Aspirations: Trade, Rupee Internationalization, and the UK FTA
Jaishankar discussed India's efforts to boost trade and economic influence, including ongoing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the UK. He expressed optimism that the deal would strengthen not only trade but also broader diplomatic ties.
He also spoke about India’s push to internationalize the rupee, linking it to India's broader economic expansion. While acknowledging the dominant role of the U.S. dollar in global trade, he noted that India's growing economic presence naturally leads to greater global transactions in rupees.
India’s Global South Leadership
Jaishankar highlighted India’s leadership role in representing the Global South, advocating for fairer global governance structures. He acknowledged that competition with China sometimes complicates this role but maintained that India's approach is distinct, focusing on democratic principles and sustainable development partnerships.
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