Jaishankar on US-India Ties Under Trump: Key Points
Why in the news
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking at Chatham House in London, explained how India-US relations were evolving under President Trump amid a shifting geopolitical landscape.
Key facts
- Jaishankar said Trump-era policy points to a multipolar world, which favours India’s global positioning.
- The US, earlier seen as part of the Western bloc after 1945, now follows a more country-first outlook.
- India can emerge as a more equal partner in talks with Washington.
- The Quad (India, US, Japan, Australia) was highlighted as a shared strategic enterprise.
- The Trump administration is reasonably positive about connectivity projects, for example the IMEC.
Quad versus NATO
- In NATO, burden sharing is contentious.
- In the Quad, members get a fair return for what they contribute, which aids cooperation.
- This alignment matters for Indo-Pacific stability.
Gains for India from connectivity projects
- Stronger trade routes linking India, the Middle East and Europe.
- Closer economic ties with the US and its partners.
- Better cooperation on strategically important infrastructure and technology.
Significance
- Energy, defence and technology offer openings for deeper cooperation.
- US support for multipolarity indirectly backs India’s global aspirations.
Exam angle
- Venue: Chatham House, London; speaker: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
- Quad members: India, US, Japan, Australia.
- Related term: IMEC, a connectivity initiative.