Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Says Countries Like India Can Pursue Independent Paths Without Always Aligning With the US or China

Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said that countries such as India and nations in the Gulf are gaining greater freedom to pursue their own strategic interests, rather than automatically aligning with either the United States or China. His remarks reflect the changing balance of global power and growing uncertainty in international relations.

Sunak made the comments on Tuesday during a panel discussion titled “The End of Predictability” at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum 2026 in New Delhi, being held from October 13 to 15 under the theme “A World in Play: Defining the New Levers of Power.” Speaking about the evolving international landscape, Sunak observed that the multilateral, rules-based system that had long shaped global economic relations was facing increasing pressure. He argued that the world was entering a period in which the future direction of international cooperation remained uncertain, creating new geopolitical risks.

Sunak said the current situation should not be viewed solely as a consequence of US President Donald Trump's policies. Instead, he described Trump's approach as a reflection of broader changes already underway in the international order. He also highlighted China's emergence as a strategic competitor to the United States across economic, military and technological sectors. According to Sunak, this rivalry represents a significant development in the global economy and has altered the calculations of governments around the world.

Turning to India's position, the former British prime minister said countries such as India and those in the Gulf were increasingly capable of making independent decisions based on their national interests. He noted that these countries would not necessarily agree with Washington or Beijing on every issue. Sunak also expressed concern about the international security situation, pointing to the growing number of armed conflicts. Citing a figure of 61 state-based conflicts, he described the trend as worrying and raised questions about its implications for global stability.

In a pointed remark, he suggested that Trump might view the numerous conflicts as potential opportunities to pursue his ambition of winning the Nobel Peace Prize. The comment came as Sunak discussed the challenges facing world leaders in an increasingly unpredictable environment. The former UK leader further referred to comments by a senior member of the US administration suggesting that global affairs were becoming more heavily influenced by force, strength and power. While describing that perspective as somewhat extreme, Sunak acknowledged that military capabilities and strategic influence were becoming increasingly important.

He added that governments were recognising the close connection between economic security, national security and technological strength. In his assessment, these overlapping pressures were contributing to a more complicated global environment in which countries must manage multiple risks simultaneously.

The panel examined the future of leadership amid geopolitical fragmentation, economic disruption and uncertainty over the international system. Other participants included Tata Sons Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran and Blackstone President and Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Gray. Sunak's remarks underline India's increasingly prominent role in a changing global order, where countries are seeking to preserve strategic flexibility while managing relationships with major powers. For New Delhi, this approach highlights the importance of maintaining partnerships across regions while making decisions in line with its own economic, security and diplomatic priorities.