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S Jaishankar's recent discussions in Brussels with EU leaders have brought to the forefront a range of critical geopolitical issues, from India's concerns regarding Pakistan's historical links to terrorism to the deepening of EU-India relations amidst a shifting global order. The Foreign Minister's remarks, delivered to Euractiv, underscore India's desire for the West to perceive its actions against Pakistan in the aftermath of terror attacks in Kashmir not as a mere border dispute, but as a resolute stance against terrorism itself. Jaishankar's pointed reference to Osama bin Laden's years-long safe haven in a Pakistani military town serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often opaque relationship between Pakistan and terrorist organizations. This is not simply a bilateral issue, he argues, but a global concern, warning that the very terrorism India confronts will inevitably return to haunt the international community. The historical context of Western support for Pakistan during the early years of India's independence, particularly concerning the invasion of Kashmir, further complicates the narrative, highlighting a sense of historical grievance and a call for Western nations to reflect on their past actions when discussing international principles. India's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict reflects a commitment to peaceful resolution and a refusal to take sides in a conflict that it believes cannot be solved through military means. While India maintains strong relationships with both Ukraine and Russia, its historical experience shapes its perspective, remembering Western support for Pakistan during its early conflicts. This nuanced approach highlights India's independent foreign policy and its focus on national interests, even as it navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape. India's engagement with the EU is framed within the context of a multipolar world order, where Europe is increasingly asserting its strategic autonomy. Jaishankar's presence in Brussels signifies India's commitment to deepening its relationship with the EU as a major global pole, emphasizing the need for cooperation and collaboration in addressing shared challenges and promoting mutual interests. The ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement between India and the EU are a testament to this commitment, as India seeks to diversify its partnerships amidst growing ties between Russia and China. However, not all aspects of the EU's policies are met with enthusiasm in India. The EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), a tax on products from jurisdictions with less stringent climate policies, has drawn strong opposition from India. Jaishankar argues against the imposition of standards by one part of the world on others, reflecting a broader concern about fairness and equity in international climate negotiations. India's approach to its relationship with the United States, even during the presidency of Donald Trump, is pragmatic and interest-driven. Jaishankar emphasizes that India aims to advance every relationship that serves its interests, and the US relationship is of paramount importance. This approach transcends individual personalities and political administrations, focusing instead on the long-term strategic benefits of a strong partnership. Finally, Jaishankar pitches India to the EU as a reliable and trustworthy economic partner, offering skilled labor and a secure environment for businesses seeking to de-risk their supply chains. He contrasts India with China, suggesting that companies are increasingly prioritizing security and trustworthiness over mere efficiency when it comes to data and critical infrastructure. The Foreign Minister's message is clear: India is a responsible and reliable partner, committed to upholding international principles and promoting peace and stability in a complex and uncertain world.
The complexities surrounding India's relationship with Pakistan are deeply rooted in history, marked by territorial disputes, mutual distrust, and recurring instances of cross-border terrorism. Jaishankar's invocation of Osama bin Laden's presence in Pakistan, a mere stone's throw from a key military institution, served as a stark reminder of the undeniable links between elements within Pakistan and international terrorism. This point, strategically delivered to a European audience, aims to shift the narrative from a simple India-Pakistan rivalry to a broader global security concern. By emphasizing the potential for terrorism emanating from Pakistan to impact other nations, Jaishankar seeks to garner international support for India's counter-terrorism efforts and to exert pressure on Pakistan to dismantle terrorist infrastructure within its borders. The historical context of Western support for Pakistan during the early years of India's independence adds another layer of complexity to the relationship. Jaishankar's reference to this history serves as a reminder of perceived inconsistencies in Western foreign policy and a call for greater understanding of India's security concerns. This historical narrative highlights the need for a more nuanced and contextualized approach to the region, recognizing the enduring impact of past decisions on present-day realities. India's non-aligned stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict is often viewed with skepticism in Western capitals, where calls for a unified front against Russian aggression have been prominent. However, Jaishankar's explanation underscores India's commitment to peaceful resolution and its belief that military solutions are ultimately ineffective. This position is further reinforced by India's historical experience, where Western support for Pakistan during past conflicts has shaped its perception of international dynamics. By maintaining strong relationships with both Ukraine and Russia, India positions itself as a potential mediator and a voice of reason in a highly polarized world. The pursuit of a free trade agreement with the EU reflects India's broader strategy of diversifying its partnerships and strengthening its economic ties with key global players. This strategic move is particularly significant in the context of growing concerns about China's economic influence and the need for alternative supply chains. By offering a reliable and trustworthy economic environment, India aims to attract European businesses and to position itself as a key partner in the global economy. However, the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) presents a significant obstacle to closer economic cooperation. India's opposition to this tax reflects concerns about fairness and equity, arguing that it disproportionately impacts developing countries and undermines their efforts to achieve sustainable development. This issue highlights the need for a more collaborative and inclusive approach to climate policy, where the concerns of all nations are taken into consideration. The relationship with the United States remains a cornerstone of India's foreign policy, regardless of the political dynamics within the US. Jaishankar's emphasis on the strategic importance of this relationship underscores its enduring value, transcending individual personalities and political administrations. This long-term perspective reflects India's commitment to a stable and mutually beneficial partnership, based on shared interests and values.
In his discourse, S Jaishankar deftly navigates the complex web of international relations, advocating for India's interests while acknowledging the shifting dynamics of the global landscape. His approach is characterized by a pragmatic realism, tempered by a commitment to multilateralism and a desire for peaceful resolution of conflicts. By addressing sensitive issues such as Pakistan's links to terrorism and the EU's climate tax, Jaishankar demonstrates a willingness to engage in frank and open dialogue, even when disagreements exist. This approach is essential for building trust and fostering cooperation in a world where challenges are increasingly interconnected and require collective action. The strategic importance of India's relationship with the EU cannot be overstated. As Europe seeks to assert its strategic autonomy and play a more prominent role on the global stage, India offers a valuable partnership based on shared values and mutual interests. The ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement represent a significant opportunity to deepen economic ties and to create a more balanced and sustainable global economy. However, the successful conclusion of these negotiations will require both sides to address key concerns, such as the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and India's concerns about market access and regulatory barriers. India's non-aligned stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict reflects its commitment to an independent foreign policy and its belief in the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. While India's position may not align perfectly with Western expectations, it is rooted in a deep understanding of its own national interests and a desire to contribute to a peaceful and stable world order. By maintaining strong relationships with both Ukraine and Russia, India positions itself as a potential mediator and a voice of reason in a highly polarized environment. The long-standing relationship with the United States remains a cornerstone of India's foreign policy, providing a foundation for cooperation on a wide range of issues, from counter-terrorism to economic development. Despite occasional differences of opinion, the strategic alignment between India and the US is undeniable, based on shared values and a common interest in promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Jaishankar's ability to navigate the complexities of international relations, advocate for India's interests, and build strong relationships with key global partners is a testament to his leadership and diplomatic skills. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and complex, India's role as a responsible and influential global player will only continue to grow. His emphasis on strategic autonomy, multilateralism, and peaceful resolution of conflicts provides a framework for navigating the challenges of the 21st century and building a more just and equitable world order.
Source: "Why Did Osama Feel Safe In Pak?": S Jaishankar On Islamabad's Terror Links