S. Jaishankar acknowledged that globalization has led to concentrated and subsidized manufacturing, impacting various economies.
S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister, emphasized the need to abandon the perception of the West as the “bad guy” in global affairs. During an interview in Thiruvananthapuram, Jaishankar clarified that he wasn’t advocating for the West but rather encouraging a more nuanced view of international dynamics.
He pointed out that it isn’t the West overwhelming Asian and African markets with goods on a massive scale. Jaishankar argued that it’s essential to move beyond the historical view of the West as the antagonist while portraying developing countries as victims, emphasizing the complexity of today’s global challenges.
Jaishankar discussed the growing sense of resentment over the past 15-20 years among countries affected by globalization’s inequities. Many nations have seen their manufacturing, employment, and industries suffer due to the influx of inexpensive goods, indirectly alluding to Chinese trade practices.
The minister highlighted the global anger stemming from the perception that some countries are exploited to fuel another nation’s economy, but he stressed that the West is not solely responsible for this situation.
He acknowledged that globalization has led to concentrated and subsidized manufacturing, impacting various economies. However, India’s accomplishments in manufacturing, agriculture, space exploration (like the Chandrayaan-3 mission), and vaccination efforts have inspired solidarity among the Global South, which includes the African Union.
During the interview, Jaishankar also discussed the achievements of the G20 Summit under India’s presidency and raised concerns about Canada providing political space to the Khalistan group. He emphasized the importance of balancing political considerations with broader global responsibilities.
Jaishankar praised India’s role in shaping the G20 agenda and highlighted that the Global South is characterized by solidarity and willingness to collaborate rather than being a strict definition or leadership claim. World leaders at the G20 Summit recently commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for championing the voice of the Global South.
The minister also welcomed the proposed economic corridor from India to Europe, passing through the Middle East, facilitating job opportunities for those seeking employment abroad.
Jaishankar discussed the issue of foreign workers and touched upon the Khalistan group’s activities in Canada, emphasizing the negative consequences when countries provide political space to such groups.
Regarding Russia’s role in the Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar explained that compromises were made to avoid blaming Russia in the G20 declaration. He highlighted the complex negotiations that took place during the New Delhi summit and India’s focus on promoting the interests of the Global South. Jaishankar concluded by acknowledging India’s evolving confidence, leadership, and its unique role in international affairs.
