External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered the 19th Nani A. Palkhivala Memorial Lecture on Saturday, offering insights into India’s evolving foreign policy over the last decade. He emphasized India’s strategic vision of fostering global partnerships while addressing contemporary geopolitical challenges.
Highlighting the volatility of the global landscape, Jaishankar noted the growing trend of “weaponization of market instruments and financial institutions.” Against this backdrop, he said, “India faces the challenge of rising amid unpredictable circumstances. To navigate this, it must accelerate internal growth and modernization while de-risking external exposure.” He stressed the importance of political stability, inclusive growth, and continuing reforms at home, along with a strong focus on manufacturing, food and health security, and competitiveness.
Calling for strategic autonomy, Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to developing critical and emerging technologies. He remarked, “India may be non-West, but its strategic interests ensure it is not anti-West.”
On India’s global standing, Jaishankar said, “We see ourselves as Vishwabandhu—a reliable partner and dependable friend. Our aim is to maximize friendships and minimize problems, guided by India’s interests.” He highlighted India’s success in advancing diverse relationships without prioritizing any single one, showcasing its ability to bridge divides in polarized situations.
The minister also stressed the growing importance of regional players, saying India is making a “conscious effort” to strengthen ties with middle powers. This approach has expanded India’s diplomatic footprint in regions like the Gulf, Africa, and the Caribbean.
Jaishankar summarized India’s diplomatic approach with the “three mutuals”—mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest.
He highlighted several initiatives that have bolstered India’s global credibility, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), the Global South Summit, India’s G20 presidency, and the supply of COVID-19 vaccines to other nations. These steps, he said, underscore India’s commitment to being a proactive and responsible global player.
In conclusion, Jaishankar underlined India’s ability to progress on multiple fronts, building partnerships across diverse regions while ensuring its own strategic and economic growth.
