In a recent address, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the complex nature of international relations, particularly concerning India's neighborhood. He cautioned against expecting consistently positive or easy relationships, highlighting the inherent volatility and the need for a realistic approach to foreign policy.
Jaishankar underscored that while India strives to cultivate collective interests and stability in the region, persistent challenges remain. He articulated a pragmatic view, stating, "The logic every one of our neighbours must realise is that working with India will give you benefits, and not working with India has a cost." This statement reflects India's strategic approach of incentivizing cooperation while making it clear that non-cooperation has its drawbacks.
Specifically, Jaishankar pointed out that Pakistan stands as an exception in India's neighborhood due to its military-defined identity, which, according to him, fosters inherent hostility. This characterization underscores the long-standing tensions and the unique challenges India faces in its relationship with Pakistan. He noted that while some nations in the region are quicker to understand the benefits of collaborating with India, others take more time.
The External Affairs Minister also shed light on the evolving dynamics of India's strategic relations with major global powers, namely the United States and China, over the past decade. Regarding the U.S., Jaishankar acknowledged the unpredictability that can sometimes characterize the relationship. However, he emphasized that India has been working to stabilize ties through multiple linkages and areas of cooperation.
Addressing the relationship with China, Jaishankar stressed the importance of preparedness, particularly in light of past tensions, a clear reference to the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. He was critical of what he suggested was previous neglect of India's border infrastructure in its China policy. He argued that developing robust infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is crucial for defending India's national interests. This infrastructure development, he asserted, has enabled India to stand firm against challenges emanating from China.
Furthermore, Jaishankar elaborated on India's broader regional engagement strategy, aimed at strengthening ties with neighboring countries and regions such as ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific. He highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership in intensifying outreach to Gulf nations and deepening relationships within India's immediate neighborhood over the past 11 years.
In a world experiencing increasing volatility, Jaishankar's remarks offer a glimpse into India's foreign policy outlook, one that balances optimism with realism. He suggests that global volatility is not just a cause but a symptom of a broader churning, encompassing a rebalancing of economic and political power. This perspective acknowledges the challenges of globalization, including increased insecurity, conflicts, pandemics, and climate events.
Jaishankar's emphasis on national interest, strategic preparedness, and regional engagement indicates India's commitment to navigating this complex landscape while safeguarding its own interests and contributing to regional stability. His remarks serve as a reminder that in international relations, smooth sailing cannot always be expected, and a proactive, pragmatic approach is essential.
