India Has "Solidly Come Through" Global Geopolitical Turbulence, Says Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar declared on Saturday that India has "solidly come through" the ongoing turbulent geopolitical situation, marked by the Middle East conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war. Speaking at the 15th Annual Convocation Ceremony of IIM Raipur, he emphasized that the country has been "managing domestic and external challenges successfully."
Global Order Undergoing Structural Shift
Jaishankar highlighted that the world is experiencing a "structural" shift, with the global order changing rapidly before our eyes. "The global order is changing before our very eyes with visible shifts in the relative power and influence of countries," he stated. He noted that some societies struggle to adapt to these transformations, creating a complex international landscape.
He pointed out that advancements in technology, energy, military capabilities, connectivity, and resources have fostered increased risk-taking in a competitive environment. "Everything today is being leveraged, if not actually weaponised," Jaishankar remarked, underscoring the need for nations to secure themselves in an increasingly volatile and unpredictable world.
Emphasis on Hedging, De-risking, and Diversifying
In response to these global trends, Jaishankar stressed the necessity for countries to focus on "hedging, de-risking and diversifying." This strategy is crucial for navigating the uncertainties and securing national interests amid geopolitical upheavals.
He expressed optimism about India's position, stating, "There is an optimism in our society that is lacking in many other parts of the world." Jaishankar highlighted India's economic resilience, noting that it is now among the top five economies and has handled recent global shocks effectively. "No one can dispute that the multiple global shocks that have recently tested our resilience, and that India has come through that solidly," he affirmed.
Building National Capabilities for Viksit Bharat 2047
Jaishankar linked India's ability to manage challenges to its goal of achieving Viksit Bharat 2047. He emphasized that building national capabilities has become more critical in light of global trends. "We must endeavour to build and secure within our control as many capacities as we can," he urged, praising inclusive growth, representative politics, and decisive leadership as key pillars.
Foreign Policy Focus on Expansion and Security
On foreign policy, Jaishankar outlined India's strategic priorities:
- Expanding market access for Indian producers.
- Securing resources, technologies, and essential goods.
- Supporting Indians abroad and promoting "Brand India."
"Our foreign policy is today focused on expanding market access for Indian producers. It is also focused on helping to secure resources, technologies and essential goods. It looks after Indians… And it promotes Brand India," he explained.
Context of Middle East Tensions
These remarks come amid heightened Middle East tensions, which began on February 28 with US-Israel strikes on Iran and have persisted for over a month. The crisis has intensified with Iran's chokehold over the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil markets and adding to geopolitical instability.
Jaishankar's address underscores India's proactive approach in a rapidly evolving world, combining economic strength with strategic hedging to navigate complex international dynamics.
