india-s-foreign-policy-shifts-toward-nationalism-and-economic-pragmatism-eam-jaishankar-speaks-out

In a candid address at the ET Roundtable, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delineated the evolution of India's foreign policy over the past decade, emphasizing a departure from previous ideological inclinations towards a more pragmatic and nationalistic approach.

 

"Today, we are focused on what is good for India. This is in contrast to an earlier left-wing liberal belief that there is a bigger cause out there, which causes our national interest to take second place. We are nationalistic," said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar about what has changed in India's foreign policy in the last 10 years.

 

Jaishankar's remarks shed light on significant alterations in India's diplomatic stance under the Modi administration, particularly in addressing the China challenge and recalibrating relations with global partners.

 

"When we look at our partners, we think how that relationship can help drive economic growth," he said. Jaishankar also diced the 'philosophical' viewpoint of the previous governments about ties with China.

 

Discussing India's foreign policy perspective, the Minister said that "It is erroneous to presume that while governments may change, foreign policies remain static"

 

"It will change because a different party with a different 'vichardhara', under a different set of assumptions and priorities, has come to power. Take, for example, the historical Left wing's reservations about dealing with the United States. I think that changed very sharply after 2014," he added.

 

Addressing the China challenge, Jaishankar stressed on the firm stance against external interference and highlighted India's commitment to safeguarding its economic and national security interests.

 

"I can tell you how strong that sense of resentment is today about the dumping of goods from China. We will do what it takes," he said.

 

"Every country today has the right to manage sensitive sectors in consonance with national security. I cannot, in the name of an open economy, open up my national security to work with a country which is laying claim to my territory. Both our economic and national security are at stake," the Jaishankar added.

 

On Israel-Gaza relations, Jaishankar reaffirmed India's support for a pragmatic two-state solution, emphasizing practical considerations over ideological motives.

 

Highlighting India's evolving stance on international disputes, Jaishankar stressed on the importance of a balanced approach to complex geopolitical dynamics.

 

Reflecting on Nehru's foreign policy, Jaishankar urged for a pragmatic and forward-looking approach, emphasizing the need to learn from past mistakes and adapt to changing global realities to safeguard India's strategic interests effectively.