The Narendra Modi government has taken steps to ensure that no attempts are made to change the status quo in border areas unilaterally, said India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar in an address at Anant National University (ANU) in Ahmedabad.
He delivered a talk on ‘Modi’s India: A Rising Power’. The minister also inaugurated Anushilp, an exhibition on crafts, a collaborative initiative between ANU and the USIN Foundation.
Addressing the challenge posed by China, Jaishankar acknowledged the complexity of the situation, particularly the recent incursions in eastern Ladakh. “The challenge from China is very complicated and has been visible in border areas in the past three years. Some responses are clearly required, and the government has undertaken those responses to ensure that no attempt is made to change the status quo in the border areas unilaterally,” he said.
Drawing an analogy between international relationships and human connections, the EAM emphasized the need for equilibrium and mutual respect between nations. “If India sees respect, sensitivity, and recognition, it can think of a better relationship with China. But if we do not, we need to stand up for our rights and be firm in asserting opposition,” said the minister.
During his 45-minute talk, Jaishankar touched upon various topics, including India’s growing influence, the evolving contours of its foreign policy, and the way forward. He highlighted India’s significant global footprint and the country’s leadership in international alliances focusing on solar energy and disaster-resilient infrastructure. He added that G7 was ground to discuss the global course of action, but the process has democratized with the G20. The minister said expectations from India’s leadership in the forum are high.
He emphasized India’s proactive engagement with the Indo-Pacific region through the Quad and its outreach to the Middle East through I2U2. He highlighted the improvement in India’s relationships with neighbouring countries through collaborative projects. He emphasized that the concept of neighbourhood extends beyond immediate geographical boundaries, underscoring the significance of regional cooperation.