On Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized that changes in India’s foreign policy should not be viewed as a political attack. He noted that the shift in foreign policy didn’t start with the current administration, but rather was initiated by former Prime Minister Narsimha Rao.
Jaishankar highlighted that India’s global role is evolving, with greater expectations and responsibilities. He envisioned India as a “first responder” in its expanded neighborhood, participating in international responses when needed. The minister acknowledged that the world is changing, leading to new ideas, initiatives, and a more complex decision-making process.
The External Affairs Minister identified four key factors driving the need for changes in India’s foreign policy. Firstly, the country’s development model has shifted away from the Nehruvian era. Secondly, the international landscape has transformed from a bipolar world to a more interconnected and globalized one. Thirdly, the behavior of states towards each other has changed, with a greater emphasis on cooperation and mutual interests. Lastly, technology has revolutionized foreign policy, state capability, and daily life.
Jaishankar emphasized that these changes necessitate a reevaluation of India’s foreign policy. He questioned how foreign policy can remain static when the domestic model, international landscape, state behavior, and tools of foreign policy have all undergone significant transformations.
