India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, recently emphasized the deep trust and high expectations that nations from the Global South have in India. During an interactive session with students at a Pune university, he elaborated on India’s vital role on the global stage.
Jaishankar defined the Global South as comprising countries that were colonized, those that have gained independence, and those still developing, typically characterized by lower income levels. He noted, “They have a high degree of trust and expectation in India, and rightly so,” highlighting India’s rising prominence internationally.
To illustrate India’s commitment to the Global South, Jaishankar provided compelling examples. He recalled India’s decisive actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the country supplied essential vaccines to numerous nations while still vaccinating its own population. “During COVID, when the developed world was stockpiling vaccines, many in the Global South received their first doses from India. The emotional impact of this gesture cannot be overstated,” he said, stressing the significance of India’s humanitarian efforts.
Jaishankar also pointed to India’s independent foreign policy, citing its support for Ukraine and the successful inclusion of the African Union in the G20 during India’s presidency. He remarked that the African Union’s longstanding request for a G20 seat had often been deferred by previous presidencies until India championed the cause. “African countries believe that India has a conscience, a standing, and a confidence today,” he noted, emphasizing India’s commitment to inclusivity and its role as a voice for the developing world.
Jaishankar’s remarks not only highlight India’s influential position within the Global South but also underscore its evolution as a responsible global power. His comments reflect the increasing trust and expectations placed on India, signaling its potential to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive global order.