During a recent event, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent train journey to Ukraine, adding a touch of humor to the situation. Responding to a question about the train ride, Jaishankar quipped, “I could have done with a Vande Bharat.” He acknowledged the challenges of the journey, stating, “It was 10 hours each way, and I think, given the situation you got what you got, but 10 hours is 10 hours.”
Beyond the lighter moment, Jaishankar delved into the complex geopolitical situation, highlighting the growing need for risk assessment and de-risking strategies. He explained that governments worldwide, whether consciously or not, are constantly evaluating risks, with many policies focused on mitigating potential threats.
“If I were to have a one-word summary of this situation, it would be ‘risks’,” Jaishankar said. “What we have seen really for the last 15 years is a steady increase in terms of risks to the global order, the international economy, and individual countries.”
He elaborated on these risks, citing ongoing conflicts in Europe and West Asia, territorial disputes, and escalating border tensions. Jaishankar also pointed to potential disruptions to global supply chains, highlighting climate change, pandemics, and technological advancements as additional risk factors.
“The idea that there are borders and borders are some kind of hardlines, and problems can be stopped on that side of the border, those days are over,” Jaishankar asserted. “Every government, consciously or otherwise is today assessing risks, and the majority of the policies are on de-risking. The ones who do it better, have the ability, then to explore opportunities but the focus of the world is on de-risking.”
While acknowledging the global focus on de-risking, Jaishankar emphasized India’s proactive approach. He stated that India is actively exploring opportunities and seeking greater engagement in global supply chains.
PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Ukraine, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the war-torn country, holds significant weight. It comes at a crucial juncture, as the region grapples with ongoing conflict.
