New Delhi, October 4 (Daily Kiran) : Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Munich Security Conference in New Delhi, emphasizing the evolving global landscape amid the competition between the United States and China. He described the current situation as a “Goldilocks scenario,” where conditions are neither too hot nor too cold.
Jaishankar explained that emerging and middle powers are increasingly focusing on expanding their options and reducing risks. This shift is not limited to economic or security concerns; countries are also working to strengthen and diversify their supply chains. He noted that these nations are establishing new frameworks for cooperation based on shared interests, exemplified by alliances like the Quad.
He remarked that the current climate allows for collaboration among countries that do not have direct conflicts of interest. This marks a departure from previous expectations where uniformity in ideology or interests was deemed essential for cooperation. Today, as long as there are sufficient common issues, countries can work together effectively.
Jaishankar pointed out that this process of risk reduction and option expansion is gradually leading to a new structure in international relations. The key question now is which countries will collaborate with one another. If emerging and middle powers find no direct conflict of interest, they are likely to strengthen their partnerships, including with the U.S. and China.
He cited the Quad as a familiar example of such cooperation, where emerging and middle powers collaborate with an established major power in the Indo-Pacific region. Other initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Connectivity Corridor and the International North-South Transport Corridor also represent opportunities for collaboration.
From a global perspective, Jaishankar highlighted BRICS as a significant example of how various countries believe their collective voice is more potent than individual ones. In the realm of resources and technology, he mentioned “Pax Silica” as a new initiative. Additionally, he pointed to the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, both initiated by India, as successful collaborations with over 100 member nations.
Jaishankar concluded that many countries today do not need to be the largest or most powerful to collaborate. They find common interests, create agendas, and develop cooperation habits, shaping the emerging global order.
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