During a session at Chatham House in London, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the US under President Trump moving towards multipolarity, benefiting India’s interests. He mentioned discussions on a bilateral trade pact, led by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Washington, following a meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Trump. Jaishankar expressed cautious optimism about India-UK Free Trade Agreement talks and discussed India’s engagement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He also addressed relations with China, emphasizing mutual respect, and outlined a three-step approach regarding Kashmir, emphasizing the need for restoration of growth and return of territory under Pakistani control.
London:
The US administration led by President Donald Trump is shifting towards a multipolar world, aligning with India’s interests, and both nations have concurred on the necessity of a bilateral trade agreement, stated External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar.
At a session entitled ‘India’s rise and role in the world’ hosted by the Chatham House think tank in London on Wednesday evening, Mr. Jaishankar was queried about his views on the initial weeks of the new US government, particularly regarding Trump’s reciprocal tariffs.
“We observe a president and an administration that, in our terminology, is progressing towards multipolarity, which is favorable for India,” remarked Mr. Jaishankar, who is currently on a six-day visit to the UK and Ireland.
“From President Trump’s standpoint, our significant shared endeavor is the Quad, which represents an understanding where each party contributes fairly… There are no free riders involved. Thus, that model is effective,” he explained. The Quad alliance comprises the US, India, Australia, and Japan.
Regarding tariffs, the minister mentioned that Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is presently in Washington to negotiate a bilateral trade deal, following prior discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump in the White House last month.
“We engaged in a very candid dialogue about it (tariffs), and the outcome was a consensus on the necessity for a bilateral trade agreement,” he noted.
During the dialogue with Chatham House Director Bronwen Maddox, the EAM addressed a wide range of topics, including his “cautious optimism” concerning the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations based on recent ministerial talks.
“It’s a highly intricate process. Therefore, given its complexity, it is understandable that it may take time… In my discussions with Prime Minister (Keir) Starmer, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, I received a consistent indication that the British side is also eager to advance. I had several points to relay on behalf of my concerned colleagues as well. So, I remain cautiously optimistic and hope the process won’t be overly prolonged,” he stated.
The conversation also encompassed India’s role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the trajectory of the BRICS nations, and relations with China among other significant foreign policy topics.
“We are among the few countries that have consistently maintained dialogue with both Moscow and Kyiv at various levels… Wherever we sense that India can contribute, we have always approached it with an open mind. Our standing has consistently been for direct negotiations,” he emphasized.
On the subject of China, Mr. Jaishankar acknowledged some positive developments since October 2024, including the reopening of the Mount Kailash pilgrimage route in Tibet.
“We maintain a very unique relationship with China as the only two countries in the world with populations exceeding one billion… Our aim is to cultivate a relationship where our interests are respected, and sensitivities are acknowledged, benefiting both nations,” he expressed.
In response to a question from the audience about “resolving” issues in Kashmir, the minister remarked: “The removal of Article 370 was the first step, restoring growth, economic activity, and social justice in Kashmir was the second step, and conducting elections with high turnout was the third step.”
“The aspect we are awaiting is the return of the part of Kashmir that is unlawfully occupied by Pakistan. Once that is achieved, I assure you that the Kashmir issue will be resolved.” Mr. Jaishankar is set to engage in discussions with his Irish counterpart, Simon Harris, on Thursday.
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