Though some countries are complicated, India is positioning itself as ‘Vishwa Mitra’ : Dr S Jaishankar

New Delhi – India’s Foreign Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, remarked that some global partners may be more challenging to engage with, as they do not consistently uphold a culture of mutual respect or diplomatic courtesy. Though, Dr Jaishankar did not directly name any countries, this statement is widely speculated to reference nations like the United States, Canada, and China. Dr Jaishankar also emphasized that India’s goal of becoming a ‘Vishwa Mitra’ (Global Friend) aims to foster friendship worldwide. He made these remarks at a book launch event in Delhi.

Dr S Jaishankar stated,

India aspires to position itself as a global friend, building alliances with as many countries as possible. In today’s evolving multipolar world, maintaining ‘special friendships’ with only a few nations is no longer viable. Cultural and historical ties play a significant role in cultivating these relationships, and India’s active engagement with the world reflects its growing self-confidence.

We have repeatedly observed reactions to our internal matters, yet similar restraint is seldom extended to us by others. For one nation, ‘freedom’ may be interpreted as ‘interference’ by another. Sensitive issues like sovereignty and territorial integrity are crucial considerations when evaluating relationships with international partners.