'Practised, Not Preached': EAM Jaishankar on India's Global Outreach
EAM S Jaishankar asserts that India practices 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' through vaccine supplies and humanitarian aid while calling for UN reforms.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has asserted that India does not merely speak of the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) but actively puts it into practice through its global actions. Speaking at the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan in New Delhi to mark United Nations Day, the Minister detailed how India's commitment to global cooperation is visible through humanitarian aid, development partnerships, and critical medical supplies.
Action Over Rhetoric: India's Global Footprint
Minister Jaishankar emphasized that India's approach to international relations is defined by tangible support rather than empty promises. He pointed to the COVID-19 pandemic as a primary example, noting that India made the strategic decision to supply vaccines to nations that might have otherwise been neglected, even while the country's own domestic vaccination drive was still underway.
Beyond the pandemic, the Minister highlighted India's extensive development network, stating that India's partnerships now encompass 78 nations with hundreds of active projects. He noted that India's capacity-building and training institutions provide opportunities for the global community while simultaneously pursuing national objectives.
The First Responder Role
India's ability to act swiftly during crises was a key point of the address. Jaishankar listed several regions where India's "first responder capabilities" were put on display, including:
- Nepal
- Sri Lanka
- Venezuela
- Jamaica
By citing these diverse geographies, the Minister reinforced the idea that the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is a lived reality in India's foreign policy.
The Global Crisis and the Need for Diplomacy
Addressing the current geopolitical climate, EAM Jaishankar expressed concern over the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia (the Middle East). He pointed out a harsh reality: societies and economies far removed from the actual fighting are bearing the brunt of these conflicts.
"We cannot remain helpless spectators," Jaishankar stated, urging that dialogue and diplomacy are the only viable solutions to these crises. He affirmed that India is actively making efforts and remains open to collaborating with other partners to achieve peace.
A Call for Reformed Multilateralism
While celebrating United Nations Day, the Minister did not shy away from criticizing the current state of global governance. He argued that the shortcomings of the UN must be acknowledged and addressed, stating that the argument for "reformed multilateralism" is growing stronger every day.
Jaishankar insisted that the UN must evolve to ensure that large portions of the world are not excluded from critical decision-making processes. He called upon the organization to demonstrate true leadership rather than remaining a mere spectator to global crises.
Concluding his address at Bharat Mandapam, the Minister called for a renewed commitment to collective action, reminding the audience that the challenges and opportunities facing the world can only be effectively addressed when nations work together in a spirit of oneness.