National Interest Must Guide India's Foreign Policy Amid Global Turmoil, Says Jaishankar at HTLS

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that India's national interest must remain the central consideration in its foreign policy as the world faces growing geopolitical uncertainty, regional conflicts and shifting power equations. Speaking at the 24th Hindustan Times Leadership Summit (HTLS) in New Delhi, Jaishankar highlighted the challenges posed by an increasingly unpredictable international environment and stressed the need for India to approach global developments with strategic clarity and independent decision-making.

During a conversation with Hindustan Times Editor-in-Chief R Sukumar, the minister discussed the changing global order, rising tensions between major powers and the implications of international conflicts for India's economic and strategic interests. Jaishankar indicated that the current phase of global turbulence was unlikely to disappear quickly and could continue for several years. He pointed to conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, instability in parts of Africa and growing competition among major powers as factors contributing to international uncertainty.

The minister also highlighted the significance of the changing relationship between the United States and China, noting the wider impact of their strategic competition on international politics and economic relationships. These developments, along with disruptions to global trade and supply chains, have made it increasingly important for countries to reassess their foreign policy priorities.

For India, navigating this environment requires maintaining productive relationships with different global powers while ensuring that its own interests are not compromised. New Delhi has continued to engage with countries across the geopolitical spectrum, focusing on areas such as defence cooperation, energy security, trade, technology and regional stability. Jaishankar's emphasis on national interest reflects India's continued commitment to strategic autonomy, allowing the country to make independent decisions on international matters rather than automatically aligning with the positions of other powers.

The external affairs minister also stressed that India's international influence would depend significantly on its domestic economic and industrial strength. He highlighted the importance of initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India in strengthening the country's manufacturing capabilities and reducing dependence on external suppliers in strategically important sectors.

He also pointed to emerging areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence and biotechnology, where developing domestic capabilities would be important for India's long-term economic security and global competitiveness. The minister's remarks come at a time when geopolitical developments are increasingly influencing energy prices, international shipping, investment decisions and global supply chains. For a country like India, which has substantial energy requirements and extensive economic connections with the rest of the world, these developments carry significant implications.

India's growing diplomatic engagement and economic influence have also increased its role in discussions concerning global governance, international security and the interests of developing countries. However, maintaining this position will require careful diplomacy, economic resilience and the ability to respond to rapidly changing international circumstances.

The 24th Hindustan Times Leadership Summit, held under the theme 'New Rules. New Realities', brought together prominent leaders and experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities emerging from a rapidly changing world. Jaishankar's address underlined the importance of keeping India's strategic priorities firmly in focus as the country navigates an increasingly complex international landscape. His message was that global engagement must go hand in hand with protecting national interests and strengthening India's capabilities at home.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.