S. Jaishankar Urges Shift from ‘West Is Bad Guy’ Perspective

In an interview, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that the West should not be seen as the “bad guy” for not flooding Asian and African markets with goods on a massive scale. He urged a more nuanced perspective on global dynamics.

While he clarified that he wasn’t advocating for the West, Jaishankar highlighted the complexities of the global economy, where the resentment over globalization’s inequities has been brewing for years. He referenced the impact of cheap goods flooding markets, indirectly alluding to China’s trade and economic policies.

Jaishankar noted that this resentment has grown due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine conflict, which led to rising energy and food prices. He asserted that the West is not solely responsible for these challenges.

He underscored India’s accomplishments, including manufacturing, agriculture, scientific achievements, and vaccination efforts, which have garnered support from the Global South, including the African Union.

The interview also touched on the achievements of the G20 Summit under India’s presidency and the concerns regarding Canada’s political space for the Khalistan group. Jaishankar explained India’s diplomatic success in shaping the G20 agenda and emphasized that the Global South is a sense of solidarity, not a new world order.

He further discussed India’s role in not blaming Russia for the Ukraine conflict in the G20 declaration and the need for compromises and cooperation in international diplomacy. Jaishankar concluded by highlighting India’s changing confidence, leadership, and ability to shape global agendas.