Jaishankar Highlights India’s Global Footprint and Diaspora Welfare
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discusses strategic autonomy, diaspora welfare, and India-Africa partnerships at the Raisina Forum.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has underscored India's expanding influence on the world stage, emphasizing the importance of strategic autonomy and the welfare of the Indian diaspora during the Raisina Forum for Future of Diplomacy 2026.
Interacting with a group of young diplomats, the External Affairs Minister highlighted how India's growing global presence is being defined by increased trade, development initiatives, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) partnerships.
The Changing Nature of Global Workforce and Diaspora Needs
As the world sees a rise in the mobility of skilled professionals, Jaishankar noted that the responsibilities of ensuring the welfare of Indians working abroad are becoming increasingly significant. This includes a specific focus on protecting the interests of various sectors, including seafarers.
He also touched upon the complexities of modern diplomacy, noting the unique challenges countries face when conducting foreign policy in the digital age dominated by social media.
Strengthening India-Africa Ties
Addressing India's engagement with the African continent, the Minister pointed to an evolving partnership. This modern relationship is characterized by a deeper transfer of technology, capabilities, and shared experiential knowledge, moving beyond traditional aid models.
The Rise of Emerging and Middle Powers
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference's MLM New Delhi, Jaishankar discussed the growing relevance of emerging and middle powers (EMPs) from both the Global South and the Global North. He noted that these nations are increasingly conscious of their role in the international system.
According to the Minister, several global factors are driving the current debate around these powers, including:
- The repositioning of the United States
- The rapid rise of China
- Sharper geopolitical competition
- Greater global interdependence
Jaishankar explained that the strategy for these emerging powers involves de-risking, diversifying partnerships, and pursuing cooperation based on specific, agenda-driven goals. This shift is contributing to a more multipolar international order defined by multi-alignment and the formation of smaller, specialized groupings.
He concluded by suggesting that these emerging and middle powers have the potential to develop a broad-based agenda that could ultimately lead to a reformed multilateral system.