India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, has spotlighted India’s confident foreign policy approach, particularly concerning China, in a recent interview with Hindustan Times’ R Sukumar and Shishir Gupta. Jaishankar underscored the leadership of the Modi government in navigating intricate global scenarios and emphasized India’s resolute positions on international issues, with a special focus on the situation with China.
Speaking about the standoff with China, Jaishankar elucidated that both nations maintain forward positions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), with increased troop presence and weaponry since 2020. He attributed the escalation to China’s initial actions, which India responded to in kind. Jaishankar emphasized the current focus on resolving patrolling issues and de-escalating tensions to restore traditional patrolling patterns for both countries.
“The situation on the LAC is that both of us today remain forward deployed, which means we are deployed well ahead of our traditional bases and camps,” Jaishankar stated. “Secondly, we are deployed in much larger numbers than we deployed before 2020. They did it first, we responded to it, so they are responsible for it.”
Jaishankar commended the Modi government’s foreign policy approach as “experienced, sober, practical, grounded but courageous,” urging voters to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi for continued stability. He highlighted the growing relevance of foreign policy to domestic audiences, with citizens showing increased interest in international issues and India’s global position.
Discussing China’s infrastructure developments in disputed regions, Jaishankar pointed out the construction of a bridge near Pangong Tso Lake and roads in the Shaksgam Valley as posing significant strategic challenges. “There is a bridge being constructed on the northern side of Pangong Tso lake. You can look at the coordinates of that bridge; it is close to a place called Khurnak, Khurnak Fort,” Jaishankar explained. He noted that the Chinese occupied Khurnak Fort illegally during the 1962 war, highlighting the contentious history of the region.
Addressing criticism from the opposition regarding China’s activities in Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh, Jaishankar attributed the current situation to decisions made by previous Indian administrations. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive and strategic approach to address challenges posed by China’s actions along the border.
Jaishankar’s remarks shed light on India’s firm stance on border issues and the government’s commitment to safeguarding national interests. As tensions persist along the LAC, India remains steadfast in its efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region while asserting its sovereignty. With foreign policy gaining prominence in domestic discourse, the Modi government’s approach to handling international affairs continues to be scrutinized and evaluated by citizens and observers alike.
Discussion about this post