-By Foreign Affairs Correspondent
(Lanka-e-News -12.March.2025, 11.10 PM) If there’s one country that has mastered the art of strategic ambiguity while simultaneously expanding its influence, it’s India. The world’s largest democracy is no longer just an emerging power—it has arrived. And if anyone doubted that, Indian Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar’s Q&A session at Chatham House on March 5, 2025, served as a masterclass in India’s global positioning.
In true Jaishankar style, his responses were a mix of blunt realism, strategic clarity, and just the right amount of diplomatic shade. From the future of BRICS to India’s relationship with the U.S., U.K., China, and Russia, the session was a tour de force on how India sees itself in the world—and how the world should see India.
When asked about Donald Trump’s potential return to power, Jaishankar gave a characteristically sharp yet diplomatic response:
"It’s interesting—but not surprising. Most political leaders have an agenda. I am a little surprised, but is it good for India? Well, the Indian PM was in Washington, and expectations are high. It suits India."
In other words: Trump may be unpredictable, but India is prepared. While Europe might be biting its nails over Trump’s foreign policy, India sees an opportunity in a more transactional, interest-driven American leadership.
Jaishankar was clear—India has never had an issue with any U.S. President. Trump’s approach of making countries “pay their fair share” doesn’t scare India, because New Delhi is playing its own game: securing oil prices, expanding the tech industry, and pushing for a long-overdue bilateral trade agreement with the U.S.
India doesn’t just want to be a partner to the U.S.—it wants to be indispensable.
Jaishankar was asked whether China even understands the U.S. position on global issues. His response?
"Issues are different. Each case, India customizes its relationships. If India can do that with each major country, then India will do better."
Translation: India is playing chess, not checkers. It has no intention of getting caught in a U.S.-China rivalry, nor does it see itself as a pawn in a larger power game. Instead, India wants to position itself as a flexible power, dealing with each country on its own terms.
On direct flights between India and China? Still none.
On border tensions? Still there.
On economic ties? Carefully managed.
New Delhi’s approach is clear—cooperate where necessary, compete where unavoidable, and confront where forced.
Western nations have questioned India’s continued trade with Russia, especially in energy. Jaishankar was unapologetic:
"India has always been honest about its dealings. Energy trade—India does not want energy inflation."
New Delhi has made it clear that its national interest comes first. Western sanctions may matter to Europe, but India will prioritize its energy security over diplomatic niceties.
As for India’s role in the Russia-Ukraine war, Jaishankar confirmed that India has been engaging with both sides—not by giving speeches, but through actual diplomatic efforts.
India was involved in negotiations over the Black Sea grain corridor.
India coordinated with Russia during the nuclear plant crisis.
If peace talks ever happen, expect India to be at the table, not just in the audience.
The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the U.K. is still in progress—18 months and counting.
Jaishankar’s take?
"An FTA is not something to be rushed. These are complex negotiations. The EU took a decade. We are accelerating the process."
Translation: Calm down, London.
But the real game-changer in the India-U.K. relationship? Education.
India has allowed foreign universities to set up campuses in India.
British universities will now have direct access to millions of Indian students.
While trade negotiations drag on, education could be the sector that defines the future of Indo-British ties.
A staggering 10 million Indians live in the Middle East, with $100 billion in trade between India and the region.
Jaishankar was clear—India doesn’t just engage with the Middle East for economic reasons, it plays an active role in regional stability.
"We condemn terror. We oppose hostage-taking. We engage with all major players."
India’s influence in the Gulf is not just about migrant labor—it’s about strategic partnerships, business investments, and security cooperation.
Can India truly rise without its neighbors?
Jaishankar didn’t hesitate:
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar are facing economic difficulties.
India provided Sri Lanka with a $4 billion bailout.
India supplied vaccines and fertilizers across the region.
But here’s the catch—India expects recognition for its assistance.
New Delhi is no longer content with being the big brother who helps without asking for anything in return. If India helps its neighbors, it expects them to acknowledge that support on the global stage.
Will BRICS replace the U.S. dollar as the dominant global currency?
Jaishankar’s answer was a firm no.
"India is not in BRICS to replace the dollar. Strengthening the international financial system is our priority."
However, India is actively promoting the internationalization of the Indian Rupee, encouraging trade settlements in Rupees rather than Dollars.
It’s not about overthrowing the global financial order—it’s about creating alternatives.
On allegations of human rights violations, Jaishankar’s response was measured:
"There are a lot of political reasons behind these allegations. We listen to complaints. We are not perfect. But faith in the Indian state is growing."
Western nations frequently critique India on minority rights, press freedom, and internal conflicts. But India’s response is always the same:
Yes, there are challenges.
No, we are not ignoring them.
And no, we do not need external lectures.
While the West worries about India’s politics, India is busy innovating.
Jaishankar highlighted that 40% of India’s economic growth is now driven by research and innovation.
A national research center is being set up.
Youth-driven innovation is being actively encouraged.
This is where India wants the world to focus—not just on its politics, but on its role as a global technology hub.
India’s rise is no longer a question—it’s a reality. The real question now is:
Will the world adjust to the idea of a truly multipolar world where India is a central player?
Jaishankar’s Q&A made one thing clear—India isn’t asking for permission to rise. It’s already rising.
And the world needs to decide whether to keep up or get left behind.
-By Foreign Affairs Correspondent
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by (2025-03-12 18:44:15)
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