Speaking at a special press briefing on Thursday, Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar said that India’s position on the Belt and Road Initiative and China’s incursions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) showed its “independence” is not “swayed” by coercion, inducement, or false narratives.
On China
He said that relations with China have deteriorated after it “consciously” broke border agreements in 2020 by moving forces along the LAC and attempting to coerce India. The EAM added that China’s lack of commitment to “peace and tranquillity” along the border regions was the “obstacle” in bilateral ties.
Nevertheless, he recognised the importance of China as India’s neighbour and the world’s largest economy. To this end, Jaishankar noted that India seeks to have good relations with the country. In addition, he stated that he believes the current tensions do not serve Chinese interests either.
While highlighting that India has always been open to engaging on official and military levels, he said that China has not cooperated. To this end, he asserted that the bilateral relations are contingent on China’s commitment to peace and tranquillity along the LAC.
On Canada
"Ulta Chor Kotwal ko Dantey", says EAM Jaishankar over comments by Canada NSA that India interferes in Canada's domestic affairs. https://t.co/C3Om1YsYZF pic.twitter.com/4o6jHAAhV2
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 8, 2023
On being asked about a pro-Khalistan procession in Canada celebrating the assassination of Indira Gandhi, he spoke critically of the “bigger issue” that Ottawa allows the space for such activities. He said that other than “Vote Bank politics,” there is no reason to allow “the space which is given to separatists, to extremists, to people who advocate violence.”
India’s Growth as a Global Power
Jaishankar underscored India’s prowess in expanding bilateral relations with international powers and regional groupings.
To this end, he said that, first, India is viewed by “a large part of the world” as a “development partner.” He mentioned that its commitment to prioritising its partners reflects its credibility.
Second, India has grown as an “economic collaborator” that seeks to develop the Global South and the global economy. The EAM cited India’s decision to increase exports and pursue trusted collaborations to support this position.
Third, Jaishankar emphasized that India has grown as a “contributor,” with its “growing capability and a growing record as a first responder.” He cited examples such as India’s “Vaccine Maitri” contribution, which supported several countries in their fight against COVID-19. He also said that while initially, it focussed on its neighbourhood, India’s role as a contributor has extended beyond, such as during earthquakes and other natural disasters across the world.
More and more countries want reform of the UNSC, says EAM Jaishankar; Points growing support for India to be at the high table. pic.twitter.com/YfP7WFLiTp
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 8, 2023
In light of all this, Jaishankar said that the international community wants to listen to, and cooperate and partner with, India.
The Minister stressed that, except for China, India’s relations with major power centres globally have evolved. In particular, he emphasised growing ties with the US, Russia, the Gulf, ASEAN, the EU and the UK.
He said that the progress resulted from the hard work of PM Narendra Modi and his government, which has introduced policies to strengthen international relations and develop domestically.
Jaishankar noted that India’s prowess on these fronts and its domestic policies have benefitted the common Indian citizen too, as it has resulted in greater mobility and business and job opportunities for Indians.