Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar sharply reacted to Europe’s appeal for restraint following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. Delivering a statement in New Delhi on May 4, S. Jaishankar lashed out at Europe’s style of international diplomacy, stating that ‘India is looking for partners, not preachers’.
His statement followed a call by European Union High Representative Kaja Kallas on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint. Jaishankar’s remark, though, went beyond Europe’s diplomacy and spoke to the increasing centrality of India in a changing world order.
India Looks for True Partners, Not Preachers
S. Jaishankar went on record, saying, “When we look at the world, we look at partners, not preachers.” He was targeting European countries, accusing them of not keeping up with the evolving global situation. He criticized Europe for not doing what it says, particularly in the context of cross-border terrorism.
S. Jaishankar stressed that cooperation should be established on the basis of mutual comprehension and common interests in a multipolar world. His words pointed to the fast-evolving global political landscape.
Europe’s Struggle with Multipolarity
S. Jaishankar highlighted the global competition intensifying and emphasized that Europe is having trouble adapting to the multipolar world. While the US became increasingly self-reliant, Europe is still under pressure. S. Jaishankar maintained that Europe hasn’t accepted the new world order yet.
China and India’s rise has altered the balance of power. S. Jaishankar’s remarks illustrate how Europe’s power is increasingly challenged by emergent powers.
India’s Increasing Role
S. Jaishankar also emphasized India’s growing presence in the Arctic. India has had a presence in Antarctica for decades, and it is now upping its involvement in the Arctic. Jaishankar noted the strategic and environmental significance of the Arctic, especially for a young nation like India.
The shifting dynamics of the Arctic will have far-reaching implications for global affairs, making India’s engagement imperative. Jaishankar also spoke of India’s Arctic policy and increasing collaboration with nations such as Norway.
Shifting Global Power Dynamics
S. Jaishankar’s remarks indicate India’s growing confidence and the expectation that Europe has to adapt to the new multipolar world. India’s expanding global presence, including in the Arctic, indicates the nation’s aspiration for genuine partnerships founded on mutual respect.
The earlier approach where Europe dominated international diplomacy is no longer applicable. India’s growing clout indicates a new geopolitical order, one which Europe has to accept and recognize.
