Global affairs keep changing their shape based on the common multilateral objectives of various nations, their national interests and the political will of their leaders. Amid this complex criss-cross of personal political agenda of the leaders, national interests of their respective nations and the bilateral & multilateral developments, this week also emanated with various developments across the world. This week remained action-packed as on one hand, Indian External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar visited Singapore, Malaysia and Philippines to discuss the issues of mutual interest and boost bilateral and multilateral relations while Russia faced a brutal terror attack.
Indian Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar embarked on a five-day tour to Singapore, the Philippines, and Malaysia this week with the goal of enhancing bilateral relations and discussing regional issues of common interest. In addition to holding discussions with the Prime Minister of Singapore and other officials, Dr. Jaishankar engaged in talks with the Singapore Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr. Gan Kim Yong, covering topics such as trade, semiconductors, space technology, sustainable energy, supply chains, and defense cooperation. He also expressed concerns regarding challenges presented by China and Pakistan. Apart from India, Singapore, Philippines and Malaysia, all the three nations are facing a territorial dispute with China; and remain concerned about the neutrality and stability of Indo-Pacific region. Taking a decisive position on combating terrorism as a statecraft tool employed openly by Islamabad, Dr. Jaishankar categorically asserted India’s unwavering determination to address this issue directly. He clearly mentioned, “Every country wants a stable neighbourhood. We have been unfortunate, or ill-starred to be blessed with the one we have to our west. How do you deal with a neighbour, who does not hide the fact that they use terrorism as an instrument of statecraft?” Dr. Jaishankar’s question is pertinent and should be discussed in all multilateral forums as well as fighting against global terrorism is a prioritised objective for the entire world.
During his visit to Philippines, Dr. Jaishankar held discussions with the Secretary for Foreign Affairs in the Philippines, Mr. Enrique A. Manalo, and discussed a wide range of topics such as defence and maritime cooperation, food security, healthcare, development, and financial technology collaboration. They also exchanged perspectives on global issues including Indo-Pacific dynamics, as well as Russia-Ukraine war and the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Both the nations shown their commitment to a rules-based order to enhancing their cooperation further based on their democratic principles. Additionally, Dr. Jaishankar expressed his appreciation for the warm sentiments towards the partnership from the President of the Republic of the Philippines and looks forward to expanding collaboration in new areas under his guidance. Dr. Jaishankar also met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, H.E. Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan during his visit. The conversation between them covered a wide range of topics including politics, defense, digital technology, trade and economics, culture and education. Both Philippines and Malaysia also agreed to enhance their strategic cooperation with India to ensure regional stability and global security.
On the other hand, Russia has been severely impacted by the most devastating terrorist attack in decades. ISIS has asserted accountability for the mass shooting last week, where armed attackers raided a popular concert venue complex near Moscow’s outskirts, resulting in over 130 fatalities. Approximately eleven individuals have been apprehended in connection with the heinous act, including four suspected gunmen from Tajikistan who have been charged with terrorism and placed in pre-trial detention. The assailants launched an indiscriminate attack using firearms and incendiary devices at the Crocus City complex on Friday night, leading to a higher death toll as more victims are found amid the rubble according to Russia’s Investigative Committee statement this morning. Clad in camouflage attire, men forcibly entered the concert hall, opened fire, and set ablaze its crowded premises. Although ISIS claimed responsibility for the atrocity without providing evidence to support their assertion, The US officials informed NBC News that they had received intelligence indicating ISIS’ capability of executing a large-scale lethal assault in Russia after months of gathering information; however, no conclusive determination had yet been made regarding culpability. Earlier this month, the US Embassy authorities cautioned people against attending significant gatherings through an official warning notice.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has come out with a public statement, denouncing the assault as a savage act of terrorism and pledging to take action against those responsible. He also alleged that Ukraine was making arrangements to assist the suspects in fleeing. However, Kyiv has firmly refuted any involvement in the attack. When ISIS has taken the responsibility of the brutal terror attack, it is high time Putin also should extend his support towards the global war against terrorism.
Terrorism needs to get a collective, effective, comprehensive and befitting reply from the entire world. Political systems, government, and policies are made to make people’s lives better. If the leaders don’t remember the true purpose of these systems, policies and institutions, they may make fatal mistakes that can cost their power itself. Hope this week teaches the leaders to work for what they get elected for.
The author is Professor, School of International Studies, JNU