At the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a sharp critique of wealthy nations, accusing them of hypocrisy in global trade practices and exhibiting selective responses to international crises. In a speech addressing global leaders, Jaishankar emphasized Bharat's commitment to maintaining its "freedom of choice" in foreign policy and economic decisions.
Jaishankar's address served as a veiled swipe at both the United States and China, highlighting concerns over tariff volatility, technology restrictions, and coercive supply-chain practices. He warned that such measures were eroding trust in the international system and urged the Global South to resist protectionist pressures. He called for "de-risking" of critical mineral supply chains, a remark seemingly aimed at China, which has a significant hold on these resources. He added that economic challenges were being compounded by "heightened technology control" and the "grip on supply chains and critical minerals".
The External Affairs Minister indirectly criticized tariffs imposed by the United States, stating that countries like Bharat face unfair trade pressures due to arbitrary tariff changes and barriers erected by developed economies. These remarks came against the backdrop of announcements of a 100 per cent tariff on imported pharmaceuticals by the U.S., a move that threatened to escalate trade tensions. Jaishankar pointed out the growing compulsion for "de-risking" due to uncertain market access and tariff volatility.
Furthermore, Jaishankar rebuked richer nations for their behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic, observing that "better-off societies insulated themselves by having the first call, as the resource-pressed ones scrambled to survive, only to hear sanctimonious lectures thereafter". He also alluded to the U.S. administration's moves to curtail the movement of skilled workers, arguing that restricting the evolution of a global workplace necessitates greater international cooperation.
Jaishankar highlighted three guiding principles that shape Bharat's approach to the world: 'Atmanirbharta' (self-reliance), 'Atmaraksha' (self-protection), and 'Atmaviswas' (self-confidence). He asserted that Bharat would always be a voice for the Global South, particularly during moments of crisis, extending assistance to its neighbors in the form of finance, food, fertilizer, and fuel.
Jaishankar's address also touched upon the issue of terrorism, asserting Bharat's determination to protect its people and interests, with zero tolerance for terrorism. Without explicitly naming Pakistan, he alluded to the country as the "epicenter of global terror," drawing applause at the General Assembly. He called for relentless pressure on the terror ecosystem and for the financing of terrorism to be choked.
In the face of global challenges and conflicts, Jaishankar urged nations to foster understanding and respect, resisting political interference and economic pressures. He also expressed Bharat's willingness to support any initiative that would help restore peace in regions affected by conflict. He stated that every member who can make this world a better place must have the opportunity to do their utmost and that reformed multilateralism is the obvious way.
