The External Affairs Minister Dr Subramanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday addressed a conference in New Delhi on the completion of 100 days of the current government.
The achievements of the current government during this 100 day period were discussed and India’s position on issues of international importance was also discussed. Present along with the EAM were the Foreign Secretary, Vijay Gokhale and the official spokesperson of the Ministry, Ravish Kumar.
‘In this changing multilateral world, there will be multiple views and India’s views are being heard.’ He added that India’s voice is stronger now than ever before and India’s appetite to shape global agenda stronger. For example, in the issue of climate change.
Collaborations have become more salient parts of India’s foreign policy. Stronger linkages between foreign policy and national security have formed.
The connect with the global diaspora is much stronger now with many engagements and programmes to attract them. Prime Minister’s upcoming event in Houston is an example of the achievement of the Indo-American community and President Trump’s participation has only added to the existing relations.
Neighbourhood first – India’s commitments to its neighbourhood is well known. It is a relationship that is based on generosity and non-reciprocity. The Prime Minister and the External Affairs Minister have visited most of the countries in the region. Relations with all neighbours are on track. Multiple projects related to energy security, connectivity and trade are ongoing, except Pakistan, that poses a unique challenge.
Relations with the extended neighbourhood is good. Increased engagement with all in the Middle East, South East Asia and Central Asia has been on the rise. Strong connect with the diaspora is based on trade, culture and common causes.
The Prime Minister released a vision document with regards to Indo-African relations last year in Uganda. The government announced US $10 Billion aid worth projects and are on track implementing them. The entire top leadership of the government including the President have visited the continent and are actively engaged them.
The European region too has seen an active engagement. The Prime Minister has met the leaders during the multiple multi-lateral conferences.
The government shall focus on the Latin American and Caribbean region in the next five years. Distance will not impact the two from coming closer.
Multiple engagements with the other ministries like the Department of Posts (Passport Seva Kendras), Ministry of HRD and Ministry of Finance has been very high.
Indo-US relations are good. Trade disputes are part and parcel of any relationship, that too close strategic partners. Have had a frank exchange of views regarding Iran.
Sino-Indian relations are progressing as decided. Visit of President XI shall be discussed later. Relationship should be a source of stability and all disputes should be settled peacefully. The situation in Hong Kong is being watched closely.
Abrogation of Article 370 is not a bilateral issue but an inetrnal one. The issue is with Pakistan’s policy of using terrorism as a state policy.
SAARC is being impeded by one nation.
Our engagements with Afghanistan is based on common values and shared interest. No formal meeting like Afghan peace process needed. There are other ways and means to shape the outcomes.
Treatment of minorities in Pakistan is nothing new and is well known. Pakistan’s hypocrisy is well known and stands exposed before the international community. Problem with Pakistan has that they are only talking and not taking any action.
Pakistan hasn’t carried out its commitments either in letter or spirit as per the verdict of the Honourable ICJ. However, India’s interest is to ensure that Kulbhushan Jadhav returns home safely.
Zakir Naik’s extradition is also being relentlessly pursued.