India Open To Collaboration With Allies: EAM Jaishankar Highlights Quad As Key Example

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking at the FPCI Global Town Hall 2024, emphasized India's openness to collaborating with like-minded partners on targeted agendas, using the Quad as a prime example of such partnerships.

Addressing the session titled "Anticipating Greater Geopolitical Turbulence Ahead, and Finding Ways to Calm the Storm," Jaishankar shared his insights on the evolving landscape of international relations.

Photo Credit: PTI

He noted that globalization has significantly rebalanced the world order over recent decades, leading to a potential shift towards genuine multi-polarity-a development unprecedented since 1945.

Rising Competition and Strategic Responses

Jaishankar highlighted the intensifying rivalry between the US and China across various sectors, including technology, artificial intelligence, and space exploration. He acknowledged that these advancements could reshape global power dynamics, making the geopolitical environment increasingly complex.

In response to these challenges, Jaishankar outlined India's approach to strengthening its global role. He underscored the importance of enhancing national capacities to contribute effectively to global needs, citing India's vaccine production during the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to bolster maritime security in the Arabian Sea.

Emphasizing Collaboration and Resilience

The Minister stressed the need for international cooperation to build more resilient global supply chains and mitigate risks from pandemics, climate events, and conflicts. He advocated for creating a more business-friendly environment and forming trusted digital partnerships to ensure data security across borders.

Jaishankar also pointed to India's digital public infrastructure as an example of successful innovation that can be shared with the Global South. He emphasized that such collaborations should be built on mutual trust and respect for sensitivities related to data and technological advancements.

The Role of the Quad

In his address, Jaishankar specifically highlighted the Quad-comprising Australia, India, Japan, and the United States-as a model of effective collaboration between like-minded nations. He reiterated India's commitment to working with global partners on specific agendas to address common challenges and achieve shared goals.

The Quad, as a diplomatic partnership, reflects India's broader strategy of engaging with allies to address global issues, enhance security, and promote stability. Jaishankar's remarks underscored India's proactive stance in shaping international relations and responding to emerging geopolitical dynamics.

As India continues to navigate a rapidly changing world, its collaborative efforts and strategic partnerships will play a crucial role in addressing global challenges and fostering a more balanced and resilient international order.