Jaishankar Warns Against Foreign Interference in Global South Politics
Vadodara, May 30 (TheTrendingPeople.com):
In a strong and timely message, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on Friday cautioned against “new forms of domination” and foreign interference targeting the Global South, while asserting India's commitment to pluralism, openness, and mutual respect.
Addressing the convocation ceremony at Parul University in Gujarat’s Vadodara, Jaishankar emphasized that although the colonial era has passed, new tactics are being used by powerful actors to influence the politics of sovereign nations—especially in the Global South.
“They profess to judge us all and pronounce on our credentials. One example is the ill-concealed interference in the politics of nations of the Global South, often in the name of promoting democracy,” he said, further noting that “such agendas are encouraged even by some segments within our own society.”
From Colonialism to Covert Influence
The minister highlighted that today's world is experiencing a shift away from Western-dominated narratives, with countries reclaiming their unique cultural identities and political voices. However, this rebalancing has also brought forth subtle but strategic interventions by foreign powers—frequently masked as support for democratic values.
According to Jaishankar, these interventions often exploit the platforms provided by globalization to assert ideological or geopolitical agendas, which challenge the autonomy of emerging nations.
“Mutual Respect Essential for a Just World Order”
Stressing the need for a more equitable and contemporary global order, Jaishankar underscored the importance of respecting each nation’s culture, heritage, and traditions.
“The membership of the United Nations has quadrupled since its founding. This alone is a reminder that we must move toward a world order that truly respects diversity and pluralism,” he noted.
He also warned against the illusion that powerful nations can operate unilaterally in today’s deeply interconnected world.
“No country, however large and powerful, can manage alone. This is the reality of interdependence and globalization. Talent, data, and resources are not always nationally generated or controlled,” he said.
India’s Global Vision: Collaboration Over Control
Positioning India as a country that has always believed in openness and co-existence, Jaishankar spoke about the nation’s approach to international relations: one grounded in mutual benefit and understanding rather than imposition.
“India does not build walls—real or metaphorical—nor do we impose our ways on others. Our pluralism at home makes us open to the world,” he said.
He reminded the audience that India has always grown with the world, not apart from it, and continues to champion diversity, dialogue, and diplomacy.
Convocation as a Call to Future Leaders
Speaking to the graduating students of Parul University, the Minister encouraged the next generation to view global engagement through the lens of cooperation, not coercion.
“India does have national interests, which it seeks to advance, but always with mutual understanding as its guiding principle. I am confident that it is this understanding of India that all of you will take back home,” Jaishankar concluded.
Key Highlights:
- Jaishankar called out “new forms of domination” exploiting globalization to interfere in the Global South.
- Asserted that true global cooperation must be based on mutual respect, not judgment or control.
- Emphasized India’s commitment to pluralism, diversity, and diplomacy.
- Warned that no nation can act alone in the era of global interdependence.