In a recent interaction with students at the Indian Institute of Management Mumbai, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar acknowledged China’s significant role as one of the world’s major economies. Despite recognizing China’s influence in shaping South Asia’s geopolitical landscape, Jaishankar conveyed that India should not be intimidated by Beijing’s tactics. Instead, he emphasized the importance of focusing on enhancing diplomatic ties with other South Asian countries.
Addressing concerns about China’s expanding influence in the region, Jaishankar asserted, “Why should we expect otherwise? But the answer to that is not to complain about what China is doing. The answer is, okay, you are doing it. Let me do better than that.”
This strategic perspective aligns with India’s commitment to proactively engage with its neighbors and strengthen relationships, even in the face of China’s growing outreach to countries like Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Pakistan.
Jaishankar also underscored the need for India to extend support to neighboring countries during challenging situations. He highlighted India’s proactive measures, such as deploying the Indian Navy’s warships in the Red Sea region to address attacks on merchant navy vessels. The EAM emphasized that India’s enhanced capability, national interests, and global reputation necessitate a responsible and active role in regional crises.
“We will not be considered a responsible country if bad things are happening around our neighborhood, and we say, ‘I have got nothing to do with this,'” stated Jaishankar, emphasizing India’s responsibility to contribute positively to regional stability.
Furthermore, Jaishankar cited instances of India’s swift response to international crises, including providing aid during the Covid-19 pandemic. He highlighted the deployment of doctors, including military medical personnel, to various countries in the Indian Ocean as a testament to India’s commitment to global welfare.
The recent incidents involving the Indian Navy, such as containing a fire on a commercial container oil tanker and rescuing Pakistani crew from a fishing vessel attacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia, showcase India’s proactive stance in safeguarding maritime security.
As India faces challenges in its immediate vicinity, Jaishankar’s remarks reflect a diplomatic strategy that goes beyond mere resistance to China’s influence. India seeks to leverage its strengths, both in terms of regional capabilities and international reputation, to actively shape its geopolitical environment.
In conclusion, India’s diplomatic resilience underlines the nation’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation. By adopting a forward-thinking approach, India aims not only to counterbalance China’s influence but also to emerge as a proactive and responsible actor in the complex geopolitical dynamics of South Asia.