External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that a shifting global power structure toward multipolarity aligns well with India’s strategic interests. Speaking at Chatham House in London, he stated that many of the priorities set by the Trump administration benefited India, particularly in energy stability and technological advancements.
Jaishankar noted that while the world is embracing multipolarity, this does not extend to currency. Dismissing claims of an anti-dollar stance within BRICS, he clarified that India has no policy to replace the dollar as the global reserve currency. Instead, he stressed that economic stability relies on the dollar’s availability, adding that many regional economic issues stem from a lack of access to it.
Discussing India’s position in global geopolitics, Jaishankar pointed out that the U.S. has been shifting its perception from being a bloc leader to acting more as a sovereign nation. India, he explained, has strategically engaged with all major powers over the past decade, ensuring a stronger position in an increasingly multipolar world—one that also benefits the Global South.
Addressing concerns about India’s human rights record, he rejected foreign criticism, arguing that India remains a robust democracy with broad representation and fair treatment of its citizens. “While we acknowledge that no country is perfect, India’s track record on human rights is strong,” he said.
When questioned about minority concerns in India, particularly regarding Tamils, Sikhs, and Muslims, Jaishankar dismissed the notion, stating, “I am a Tamil, and I feel perfectly comfortable.” He criticized certain political strategies abroad that fuel identity politics for electoral gains, calling them divisive and counterproductive. Instead, he advocated for governance that treats all citizens equally, rejecting tokenistic approaches to minority politics.
His remarks underscored India’s growing confidence in its global role, its commitment to economic stability, and its stance on inclusive governance in a rapidly evolving world order.
