India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, has positioned the country as a “power in the middle,” emphasizing its significant global influence with a population of 1.4 billion and an economy nearing $4 trillion. Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum alongside Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, Jaishankar discussed the critical role of middle powers in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Jaishankar underscored the importance of countries with shared interests collaborating to shape the global order and enhance their influence in international decision-making. He highlighted initiatives like the Quad and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as examples of strategic cooperation aimed at addressing common challenges. This reflects a broader trend of nations reassessing their national interests and developing independent policies to strengthen their strategic autonomy.
The conversation at the forum also touched on a shift in global governance, with more countries striving for a more prominent role in international affairs. Jaishankar’s remarks mirrored a growing interest among emerging economies to fortify cooperation while maintaining their independence on strategic fronts.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney had earlier called for middle powers to unite in protecting multilateralism and adapting to changes in the international system. Aligning with this view, Jaishankar emphasized the necessity for countries to engage closely and identify areas of mutual interest to bolster global stability.
Anita Anand, echoing the need for active leadership, urged middle powers to work collectively to uphold international rules, enhance economic resilience, and tackle emerging security challenges. She showcased Canada’s strategy through trade agreements, security partnerships, and multilateral cooperation, such as within the G7, to support shared interests and create more resilient supply chains.
The dialogue highlighted the increasing significance of cooperation among middle powers as they navigate geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and shifting global alliances. Both Jaishankar and Anand underscored that through strategic partnerships, countries could play a pivotal role in shaping the future international order.