External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Lok Sabha, emphasizing the need for maturity in India’s foreign relations amid fluctuating domestic politics of neighboring countries. He highlighted significant development projects, historical engagement patterns, and affirmed India’s commitment to stability through the “Neighbourhood First” policy, addressing challenges such as troop disengagement with China and minority rights in Bangladesh.
During a recent session in the Lok Sabha, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed a query from Congress member Manish Tewari concerning India’s relations with its neighboring countries. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of maturity and restraint in India’s diplomatic approach, stating, “Our neighbours also have their politics. There are ups and downs in their countries. It will have some implications for us, but it is important we are mature and we don’t get into point-scoring.” He presented evidence of India-backed development initiatives and increased trade as indicators of positive relations despite regional political fluctuations.
Responding to Tewari’s concerns about visiting patterns and political influences in neighboring countries, Jaishankar highlighted significant visits made by Indian leaders, indicating a renewed commitment to bilateral relationships. He noted, “There had been no high-level visits from India to Nepal for 17 years,” prior to Prime Minister Modi’s engagements. Moreover, he outlined India’s developmental efforts in the Maldives, including infrastructure projects, and recalled past challenges with Chinese influence in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh’s issues surrounding terrorism.
When discussing territorial disputes and security matters in Ladakh, Jaishankar confirmed ongoing dialogues with China regarding troop disengagement along the Line of Actual Control. He acknowledged the complexities of regional security, especially regarding Myanmar and Bangladesh, while expressing concern for minorities in Bangladesh, stating that this was an issue raised with Bangladeshi authorities.
Jaishankar also addressed recent mapping disputes with Nepal, asserting that such actions would not alter India’s official stance. Furthermore, he indicated the necessity to reevaluate India’s open border policy with Myanmar due to instability in that region.
Overall, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, which aims to foster mutually beneficial relations and stability among neighboring countries. This policy includes substantial investments in infrastructure development and humanitarian assistance directed to various nations in the region, emphasizing India’s commitment to regional prosperity and cooperation.
The dynamics of India’s foreign relations, particularly with neighboring countries, are shaped by individual domestic political scenarios impacting diplomatic engagements. As seen in the recent discussions in Parliament, the complexities involve a history of varied interactions, bilateral visits, development projects, and regional security challenges. Jaishankar’s statements serve to clarify India’s position amidst evolving geopoliticalism and to portray a narrative of cooperation, maturity, and continuity in foreign policy despite external pressures and internal political discourse.
In summary, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s statements elucidate India’s commitment to a mature and strategic approach in managing its relations with neighboring countries while recognizing the complexities involved. His insights into historical diplomatic engagements, ongoing projects, and the outlined challenges affirm India’s dedication to regional stability and cooperative prosperity under a clear policy framework. These dialogues not only aim to foster trust but also enhance mutual growth in the face of global geopolitical shifts.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
