External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar declared that the global order is accelerating toward multipolarity, noting that the United States has largely abandoned its historical posture of discouraging India from maintaining multiple international partnerships.
Speaking at an event hosted by the Asia Society in New York on Monday, Jaishankar shared perspectives alongside Daniel Russel, former US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs. The discussion focused on shifting global dynamics, changing trade policies, and the evolving bilateral relationship between New Delhi and Washington.
A Shift in US Expectations
Reflecting on past diplomatic interactions, Jaishankar pointed out that Washington previously expected India to limit its foreign policy choices and concentrate primarily on its relationship with the United States—even as Washington maintained diverse alliances worldwide.
”There was once a narrative in America that we don’t like India having too many options,” Jaishankar remarked during the discussion. “We want you to focus on your relationship with us even though America kept its options open. Today that pretence has dropped.”
He emphasized that modern international diplomacy is defined by flexibility, stating, “Everybody is openly dealing with everybody else. And that is how we are heading towards a multipolar world.”
Washington Emulates Indian-Style Strategic Autonomy
Jaishankar observed that the US is currently managing a complex network of global partnerships across Asia, Europe, Russia, and China simultaneously—an approach similar to India’s long-standing strategy of strategic autonomy.
”Pretty much what people used to say about us, Washington is today practising with a great deal of gusto,” Jaishankar added, acknowledging the pragmatic foreign policy maneuvers of the US administration in navigating intricate geopolitical balances.
The Minister noted that addressing mutual concerns, including bilateral trade negotiations and shared geopolitical interests, remains central to keeping India-US relations on an upward trajectory.
