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18 Feb 2026·Source: The Indian Express
3 min
International RelationsNEWS

Jaishankar Highlights India's Strong Position in Global Partnerships

EAM Jaishankar emphasizes India's growing influence in international collaborations and trade.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar stated that India is engaging with global partners from a position of strength. He highlighted India's increasing influence in international collaborations, trade, and strategic partnerships. Jaishankar emphasized that India's economic growth and strategic autonomy enable it to negotiate and collaborate effectively on the global stage. He also spoke about promoting engaging international community that is a deindustrialized trade.

Key Facts

1.

India is engaging with global partners from a position of strength.

2.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar made the statement.

3.

India's increasing influence in international collaborations was highlighted.

4.

India's economic growth and strategic autonomy enable effective global negotiation and collaboration.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper II: International Relations - Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests.

2.

GS Paper III: Indian Economy - Growth and Development

3.

Potential for questions on India's foreign policy objectives and challenges.

In Simple Words

India is becoming a more powerful player in the world. It's like India is now a strong negotiator, not just agreeing to what others say, but having its own voice and goals.

India Angle

This means India can get better deals on things like trade and technology. This can help create more jobs and opportunities for Indians.

For Instance

Think of it like bargaining for vegetables. If you're a strong negotiator, you get the best price and quality. Similarly, India can now negotiate better terms for its people.

It means a better future for India, with more influence and prosperity. It affects everything from the price of goods to job opportunities.

India's strength on the global stage means a stronger future for every Indian.

More Information

Background

India's foreign policy has evolved significantly since independence, moving from non-alignment to multi-alignment, reflecting a desire to engage with various global powers based on national interests. This shift is driven by the need for economic growth, technological advancement, and strategic security. Strategic autonomy allows India to make independent decisions without being dictated by any single power bloc. India's growing economic strength has enabled it to play a more prominent role in international forums and negotiations. The country's increasing GDP and market size make it an attractive partner for trade and investment. India's focus on multilateralism and its active participation in organizations like the G20 and SCO demonstrate its commitment to global cooperation. India's engagement with global partners is also shaped by its commitment to a rules-based international order. This includes upholding international law, promoting peaceful resolution of disputes, and advocating for reforms in global governance structures. India's approach emphasizes inclusivity and seeks to bridge the gap between developed and developing nations.

Latest Developments

In recent years, India has actively pursued free trade agreements (FTAs) with various countries and regions to boost its trade and economic ties. The focus has been on diversifying trade partners and reducing dependence on specific markets. Negotiations are ongoing with countries like the UK and the EU for comprehensive trade deals. India's engagement in multilateral forums has also intensified, with a focus on addressing global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and pandemics. India has been advocating for reforms in international organizations like the United Nations to make them more representative and effective. The country's growing influence is reflected in its increased participation in global decision-making processes. Looking ahead, India aims to further strengthen its strategic partnerships and promote a multipolar world order. This involves deepening cooperation with like-minded countries on issues of mutual interest and working towards a more equitable and sustainable global system. India's focus remains on leveraging its economic and strategic strengths to advance its national interests and contribute to global peace and prosperity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key takeaways regarding India's position in global partnerships, as highlighted by EAM Jaishankar?

EAM Jaishankar emphasized that India is engaging with global partners from a position of strength. He highlighted India's increasing influence in international collaborations, trade, and strategic partnerships, enabled by India's economic growth and strategic autonomy.

2. Explain the concept of 'strategic autonomy' in the context of India's foreign policy. Why is it important?

Strategic autonomy refers to India's ability to make independent decisions in its foreign policy without being dictated by any single global power. It is important because it allows India to pursue its national interests effectively, engage with multiple partners, and maintain flexibility in a rapidly changing global landscape.

3. How does India's current approach to multilateralism differ from its earlier non-alignment policy?

India's foreign policy has evolved from non-alignment to multi-alignment, reflecting a desire to engage with various global powers based on national interests. While non-alignment focused on distancing from major power blocs, the current approach emphasizes active participation in multiple forums and partnerships to promote India's economic and strategic goals.

4. What recent developments indicate India's growing influence in international trade?

India has actively pursued free trade agreements (FTAs) with various countries and regions to boost its trade and economic ties. Negotiations are ongoing with countries like the UK and the EU for comprehensive trade deals. This focus on diversifying trade partners and reducing dependence on specific markets demonstrates India's growing influence.

5. How might India's strengthened position in global partnerships affect the average citizen?

A stronger global position can lead to increased economic opportunities, such as more jobs and access to cheaper goods through trade agreements. It can also enhance India's ability to address global challenges like climate change and pandemics, leading to a safer and more prosperous future for its citizens.

6. What is 'de-industrialized trade' and why is EAM Jaishankar promoting it?

Based on available information, 'de-industrialized trade' refers to trade that does not rely heavily on traditional industrial production. EAM Jaishankar is promoting engaging international community that is a deindustrialized trade. More information is needed to fully understand the nuances of this concept and Jaishankar's specific reasons.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Which of the following statements best describes India's current approach to global partnerships, as highlighted by EAM Jaishankar?

  • A.India is engaging with global partners primarily for humanitarian aid and disaster relief.
  • B.India is engaging with global partners from a position of strength, leveraging its economic growth and strategic autonomy.
  • C.India is focusing solely on bilateral trade agreements to boost its economic growth.
  • D.India is prioritizing military alliances to ensure its national security.
Show Answer

Answer: B

EAM Jaishankar stated that India is engaging with global partners from a position of strength. This is due to India's increasing influence in international collaborations, trade, and strategic partnerships. India's economic growth and strategic autonomy enable it to negotiate and collaborate effectively on the global stage. Options A, C, and D do not fully capture the essence of India's multifaceted approach.

2. Consider the following statements regarding India's strategic autonomy: 1. Strategic autonomy implies that India makes independent decisions based on its national interests without being dictated by any single power bloc. 2. India's strategic autonomy is solely focused on military alliances and defense cooperation. 3. Economic growth and a diversified economy contribute to India's ability to exercise strategic autonomy. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.1 and 3 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is CORRECT: Strategic autonomy means India makes independent decisions based on its national interests. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: Strategic autonomy is not solely focused on military alliances; it encompasses a broader range of policy areas. Statement 3 is CORRECT: Economic growth and diversification strengthen India's ability to exercise strategic autonomy by reducing dependence on external actors.

3. Which of the following organizations is NOT directly related to promoting international trade and economic cooperation?

  • A.World Trade Organization (WTO)
  • B.G20
  • C.Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
  • D.International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
Show Answer

Answer: D

The World Trade Organization (WTO) promotes international trade. The G20 is a forum for international economic cooperation. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) focuses on security cooperation and economic development among its member states. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) promotes the peaceful use of nuclear energy and prevents its use for military purposes. Therefore, IAEA is not directly related to promoting international trade and economic cooperation.

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