‘As Far As Pakistan, China Are Concerned…’: Jaishankar’s First Comment As He Takes Charge Of MEA In Modi 3.0
Upon assuming the role of Minister of External Affairs on Tuesday, Minister S. Jaishankar restated the country’s strong position on issues with neighbouring countries China and Pakistan. He emphasized that India will address both the border issue with China and the longstanding problem of cross-border terrorism with Pakistan.
In his first address since taking office in the NDA government, Jaishankar expressed that it is a significant achievement for any government, particularly in a democracy, to be elected three times consecutively. He also highlighted the perceived political stability in India by the international community.
Regarding China and Pakistan, Jaishankar noted that India’s relations with these countries are distinct, as are the challenges associated with each. India’s focus with China will be to seek a resolution to the border issues, while with Pakistan, the aim is to find a solution to the ongoing issue of cross-border terrorism.
At 69 years old, Jaishankar was among the senior BJP leaders, including Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, and Nirmala Sitharaman, who retained their ministries from the previous government. “Assumed charge as the Minister of External Affairs. Thank PM @narendramodi for assigning me this responsibility,” he stated on X.
Since 2019, Jaishankar has been the external affairs minister, confidently presenting India’s positions on global issues. He effectively addressed Western criticism of India’s oil procurement from Moscow following the Ukraine war and developed a strong approach to deal with China. Jaishankar is recognized for bringing foreign policy matters into domestic discussions, particularly during India’s presidency of the G20.
Currently, he is a member of Rajya Sabha from Gujarat. Previously, Jaishankar served as India’s foreign secretary from 2015 to 2018, Ambassador to the United States from 2013 to 2015, China from 2009 to 2013, and the Czech Republic from 2000 to 2004. He also held diplomatic positions in embassies in Moscow, Colombo, Budapest, and Tokyo, as well as in the Ministry of External Affairs and the President’s Secretariat.
