Jaishankar stresses stronger India-EU ties amid global uncertainty
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the importance of a stronger India-EU relationship in today’s uncertain global landscape. He emphasized that this partnership can be a key stabilizing factor in a world facing increasing volatility.
India-EU relations more crucial than ever
Speaking at the IIC-Bruegel annual seminar, Jaishankar stated that the India-EU relationship is more vital now than ever before. He pointed out the selective application of international law, citing instances in India’s neighborhood where different standards have been applied to similar situations in the East and West.
Global conflicts and the world order
Jaishankar discussed the ongoing global conflicts, often presented as matters of principle, and highlighted how these principles have been applied inconsistently. He touched upon trade, digital [[technology]], climate action, and their interplay with geopolitics.
A multipolar world and rebalancing
The External Affairs Minister acknowledged the current talk of a crumbling world order, emphasizing that the consensus underpinning it has eroded. He noted the North-South contradictions and the East-West divide, recognizing that these broad characterizations are no longer adequate in an era of heightened nationalism. He added that both economic and political logic of an earlier era needs refreshing. Much of the architecture will undoubtedly continue because we are too deeply invested into it, but some of it, perhaps aspects that are critical and sensitive, will be more nationally driven.
India and the EU in a changing world
Jaishankar stressed the need for convergence and honest conversations between India and the EU as they navigate these changes. He highlighted their shared interests and values, acknowledging potential differences in priorities and specifics. He emphasized their common ground as political democracies, pluralistic societies, and [[market]] economies, suggesting increased meeting points as they adapt to the evolving global scenario.
Europe’s strategic awakening
Jaishankar also noted Europe’s increased strategic awareness in recent years, viewing it as a potential driver for deeper engagement with India, particularly in defense, security, and technology cooperation. He reiterated the growing importance of the India-EU partnership in these times.