Andalib Akhter / New Delhi
External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar today said that India’s foreign policy reflected the country’s greater influence, bigger footprint, new concept, and strong delivery in recent years.
Briefing media on the completion of nine years of the Modi government at the Centre, the External Affairs Minister said that the world today looked India as a development partner and listened to it as an independent voice.
He said the activities of Indian diplomacy have made the nation more secure and economically strong. He said India is countering Chinese actions on the northern borders and de-legitimized cross-border terror from Pakistan which has enhanced security.
He said India has taken a clear stance on the Belt and road initiative and the situation on northern borders. Terming India as an economic collaborator, he said, India is making a larger economic impact which is being recognized at the world level. He said Global South sees India as a credible and effective development partner with strong delivery on the ground.
On the country’s growing stature in the world, Dr. Jaishankar said, India is the first G20 President, who has made an effort to consult others, and 125 countries responded because they believe in the country’s independent voice.
He said India took an independent stance during the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Talking about India’s role during the Turkiye earthquake and Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, he said, India has the growing capability of the first responder and helping countries in economic stabilization.
The Minister said, India’s stronger and more collaborative foreign policy has eased the lives of the citizen.
Highlighting the land boundary agreement with Bangladesh, mobility agreements with several countries, opening up of more Passport Seva Kendra, and technological collaboration with foreign countries, Dr Jaishankar said, these efforts have benefited the people and created several new opportunities for youths.