External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Touts India’s Diplomatic Achievements and Global Impact

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, addressing the 3rd convocation of Rashtriya Raksha University in Lavad, Gandhinagar, highlighted India’s diplomatic achievements, emphasizing the nation’s success in cultivating relationships with multiple and often competing global powers. Jaishankar called this a “significant” milestone and underscored the importance of reliable partnerships in navigating challenging geopolitical landscapes.

He acknowledged the positive impact of India’s overall national development since 2014, addressing shortcomings in the security domain. Jaishankar commended the strenuous efforts made in the last decade to enhance national strengths, noting the positive repercussions in the internal, external, and border security realms.

“Our geopolitical calculations rest on identifying reliable partners during times of stress,” Jaishankar stated, emphasizing the core role of diplomacy in shaping India’s business policies and geopolitical considerations.

The External Affairs Minister emphasized that the security factor is deeply embedded in India’s strategy and diplomacy when engaging with the competitive global environment. He noted the broad definition of what constitutes national security and the importance of acquiring and developing weapons and development-related capabilities.

India’s transformation into a “credible and effective development partner” was highlighted, with a development portfolio extending to 78 nations. Jaishankar pointed out that India is now perceived as a reliable development partner, offering demand-driven, transparent, empowerment-oriented, and environmentally friendly projects based on a consultative approach.

Furthermore, Jaishankar stressed India’s role in promoting digital public infrastructure and sharing digital governance best practices, particularly with the Global South. He described India as a force for global good and stability, simultaneously defending national interests and speaking as a voice of peace, security, and prosperity for all in the complex landscape of international affairs.

As India’s people-centric foreign policy aligns with societal demands and aspirations, Jaishankar asserted that the world recognizes India not only as a nation speaking for itself but as a voice representing peace and prosperity on a global scale. The Minister concluded that, while navigating unprecedented complexities, India remains a force for stability, defending its interests while contributing to the broader global good.