BJP leader S Jaishankar, who expertly navigated India’s diplomatic course during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s second term, has resumed his role as External Affairs Minister in the new government. On Tuesday, Jaishankar returned to his duties at the Ministry of External Affairs in South Block, where he outlined distinct strategies for engaging with China and Pakistan, underscoring India’s commitment to resolving “border issues” with Beijing and addressing “years-old cross-border terrorism” with Islamabad.
In his address, Jaishankar emphasized that India’s foreign policy under PM Modi’s third term will focus on these key challenges. “Our focus with regard to China will be on finding a solution for the border issues,” he stated, highlighting India’s intention to resolve territorial disputes through dialogue and diplomatic channels.
India has faced ongoing boundary disputes with China, which reached a notable peak in 2020 with the Galwan clashes. Earlier this year, India reiterated its position on China, stressing continued diplomatic and military engagement to seek resolution.
Regarding Pakistan, Jaishankar emphasized India’s firm stance against cross-border terrorism. “With Pakistan, we would want to find a solution to the issue of years-old cross-border terrorism,” he said. India has consistently maintained that improving ties with Pakistan is contingent on Islamabad’s efforts to eliminate terrorism, hostility, and violence.
Jaishankar also expressed optimism about India’s aspirations for a seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) within the next five years. He highlighted the growing influence of India on the global stage, bolstered by PM Modi’s leadership. “I am fully confident that under PM Modi’s leadership, the foreign policy of Modi 3.0 will be very successful… The influence of India has been steadily growing, not just in terms of our own perception but also what the other countries think,” he remarked.
Emphasizing India’s role as a steadfast ally to the Global South, Jaishankar noted the country’s commitment during crises and its increasing responsibilities on the international platform. “They feel that India is truly their friend and they have seen that in times of crisis, if there is one country that stands with the Global South, it is India,” he added. He also highlighted India’s leadership during its G20 presidency, particularly in advocating for the African Union’s membership, which garnered global trust and recognition.
Jaishankar’s extensive diplomatic career, which began in 1977 with India’s Foreign Service, includes serving as India’s envoy to the United States (2013-15) and China (2009-13), and as Ambassador to the Czech Republic (2000-04) and High Commissioner to Singapore (2007-09). His earlier roles included postings in the Soviet Union and the Americas Division of the Ministry of External Affairs.
As Jaishankar resumes his critical role, his experience and strategic vision are set to steer India’s foreign policy through the complex challenges and opportunities of the Modi government’s third term.