India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, has positioned the nation as a “middle power” with significant global influence, citing its burgeoning population of 1.4 billion and an economy valued at about $4 trillion. Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum alongside Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, Jaishankar emphasized the collaborative efforts among countries with shared interests to navigate the evolving global landscape.
During the discussion, Jaishankar highlighted the growing importance of middle powers in the face of geopolitical uncertainties and shifting economic relationships worldwide. He stressed the trend of countries reassessing their national interests, crafting independent policies, and fostering partnerships to tackle common challenges. He pointed to initiatives such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (the Quad) and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as examples of strategic and economic collaboration among nations.
Jaishankar also indicated a shift in global governance, where more countries are aspiring to have a say in international affairs. This reflects a broader interest among emerging economies in strengthening cooperation while preserving strategic independence. The remarks came in the wake of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s call for middle powers to unite in order to safeguard multilateralism and effectively address changes in the international system.
Anand echoed this sentiment, urging middle powers to assume a proactive leadership role in shaping the international order. She advocated for collective efforts to uphold international rules, bolster economic resilience, and address emerging security challenges. Highlighting Canada’s approach, Anand mentioned its trade agreements, security partnerships, and participation in multilateral platforms like the G7, underscoring the potential of coordinated action to enhance national strategic autonomy and support resilient supply chains.
The dialogue at the forum underscored the increasing significance of cooperation among middle powers as nations navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, economic uncertainties, and evolving global alliances. Both ministers underscored the necessity for such countries to engage more closely with each other, identifying and capitalizing on areas of aligned interests.