S. Jaishankar: The Diplomat Redefining India's Global Stature
- Team PressGlobal
- Jul 12, 2024
- 5 min read
S. Jaishankar, India's former diplomat and current Foreign Minister, has made headlines for his incisive and assertive approach in the international arena. With a career spanning over four decades in diplomacy, Jaishankar's tenure as Foreign Minister has been marked by a series of strategic maneuvers and candid statements that have often caught the Western world off guard. His deft handling of international relations has positioned India as a more assertive and independent global player.
Surprising the West: A Series of Bold Moves
One of the most notable instances of Jaishankar's diplomatic acumen was during the Ukraine crisis. While the West expected India to align unequivocally with their stance, Jaishankar articulated a balanced approach that emphasized India's strategic autonomy. He highlighted the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolution, while also ensuring that India's national interests were safeguarded. This stance underscored India's independent foreign policy, not swayed by external pressures.
Jaishankar's handling of the Indo-Pacific region's dynamics is another exemplary case. At the Quad meetings, Jaishankar has been a vocal advocate for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. His articulate defense of India's position has been pivotal in countering narratives that seek to limit India's strategic space in the region. By fostering closer ties with Japan, Australia, and the United States, Jaishankar has ensured that India's voice is heard and respected in critical geopolitical discussions.
During the conflict in Ukraine, when Western countries imposed sanctions on Russia, India's decision to continue purchasing Russian oil drew significant scrutiny and criticism. However, Jaishankar stood firm on this decision, emphasizing India's need to secure its energy interests amidst global uncertainty. He argued that India, like any other country, has the right to prioritize its energy security and economic needs. His clear and unapologetic stance on this issue was a powerful assertion of India's strategic autonomy. At a conference in Europe, Jaishankar remarked, "Europe buying Russian oil is okay, but not India? By the way, Europe has imported more oil from Russia than India has." This statement highlighted the double standards often applied by Western nations and reinforced India's commitment to its own national interests without yielding to external pressures.
On the matter of Pakistan, Jaishankar has been equally forthright. In numerous international forums, he has articulated India's stance on terrorism and cross-border insurgency emanating from Pakistan. At the United Nations, Jaishankar’s addresses have consistently called out Pakistan for its role in fostering terrorism, while also emphasizing the need for global cooperation in combating this menace. When Pakistan attempted to internationalize the Kashmir issue, Jaishankar's response was clear and resolute. He reiterated that Kashmir is an internal matter of India and any dialogue on this issue would be bilateral, between India and Pakistan, without third-party mediation. This stance not only reaffirmed India's sovereignty but also shunted attempts by Pakistan and its allies to gain international support against India.
Jaishankar's handling of the India-China border tensions has also been noteworthy. Following the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, Jaishankar led India's diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation while ensuring that India's territorial integrity was not compromised. His firm yet diplomatic engagement with Chinese counterparts highlighted India's readiness to defend its borders and maintain peace through strength and dialogue.
Mastermind of India's Foreign Policy
S. Jaishankar's strategic vision for India's foreign policy is underpinned by a few key principles: strategic autonomy, multipolarity, and robust bilateral relations. His approach has been to diversify India's global partnerships, reducing over-reliance on any single country or bloc. This multipolar strategy ensures that India can navigate the complexities of global politics with greater flexibility and leverage.
Jaishankar's role in strengthening India's relations with its immediate neighbors cannot be overstated. He has been instrumental in enhancing regional cooperation through initiatives like BIMSTEC and SAARC. His efforts have aimed at fostering economic and security cooperation in the region, thereby promoting stability and development.
Under Jaishankar's leadership, India's foreign policy has also seen a renewed focus on the diaspora. Recognizing the strategic importance of the Indian diaspora, he has worked towards building stronger connections with Indians abroad, ensuring their contributions to India's global image and economic growth are recognized and facilitated.
The Trustworthy Strategist
S. Jaishankar's credibility and trustworthiness stem from his extensive experience and deep understanding of international relations. His diplomatic career, including his tenure as Ambassador to the United States and China, has equipped him with unparalleled insights into the workings of global diplomacy. His ability to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes with clarity and precision has earned him the respect and trust of leaders worldwide. Domestically, his transparent and forthright communication style has reassured the Indian populace of the government's commitment to safeguarding national interests.
Jaishankar is known for his sharp, candid, and impactful statements that have often taken the global community by surprise. For instance, on India's strategic autonomy, he has remarked, "India is too big a country to be boxed into the category of an ally or partner. We are not a treaty ally of anyone." This underscores his belief in India's unique position in global politics.
On the European criticism regarding Russian oil, he pointed out the double standards by saying, "Europe buying Russian oil is okay, but not India? By the way, Europe has imported more oil from Russia than India has." His response to Western critiques on human rights has also been firm: "India does not need to be told what to do on democracy. India is perhaps the only society in history to have attempted a comprehensive transformation of its social order in a democratic framework."
Regarding Pakistan and terrorism, he has been clear and resolute: "We cannot allow terrorism to be justified and condoned as an instrument of statecraft." He has also reinforced India's stance on Kashmir, stating, "Kashmir is an integral part of India and any dialogue will be bilateral, without any third-party mediation." On the global perception of India, he has said, "If you are confident about yourself, you will see the world very differently. And if you are not confident about yourself, you will see the world very differently."
A Diplomatic Maestro Steering India to New Heights
In the complex theatre of international diplomacy, few figures have emerged as distinctly as S. Jaishankar. As India's Foreign Minister, he has masterfully steered the country through turbulent global waters, redefining India's foreign policy with a blend of assertiveness and strategic depth. His tenure has been a testament to his unparalleled expertise, unwavering dedication, and strategic brilliance.
Jaishankar’s handling of India's foreign relations has not only enhanced India's global standing but also ensured that India's voice is both heard and respected on the international stage. His unwavering stance on issues of national interest, coupled with his articulate defence of India's positions, has often left the Western world surprised and compelled to reconsider their perspectives.
Moreover, Jaishankar's emphasis on strategic autonomy and multipolarity has fortified India's position as an independent global player. His vision has fostered stronger regional cooperation, enhanced ties with major global powers, and ensured that India remains at the forefront of critical global discussions.
In sum, S. Jaishankar is not just a foreign minister; he is the mastermind behind a resurgent India's assertive and confident foreign policy. His leadership continues to inspire and assure, making him one of the most trustworthy and respected figures in Indian and global diplomacy. His legacy is one of strategic foresight and unwavering commitment to India's rise as a global power.
Very well articulation I am really impressed with the content part