India is increasingly being recognized as a key player in shaping the global order, as highlighted by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum alongside Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, Jaishankar described India as a “power in the middle,” emphasizing its significant population of 1.4 billion and its economy, which is valued at approximately $4 trillion.
The conversation centered around the growing influence of middle powers in a world marked by geopolitical uncertainty and shifting economic alliances. Jaishankar pointed out that countries are now more focused on assessing their national interests independently and forming strategic partnerships to tackle common challenges. He referenced initiatives like the Quad and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as examples of successful cooperation that align with strategic and economic priorities.
This discussion comes in the wake of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s call for middle powers to collaborate more effectively to uphold multilateralism and address changes in the global system. Jaishankar echoed this sentiment, advocating for increased engagement among these nations to identify and pursue areas of mutual interest.
Anita Anand further emphasized the importance of middle powers taking a leadership role in shaping international norms. She argued that through coordinated actions, countries could fortify national strategic autonomy while supporting shared interests and ensuring resilient supply chains. Anand highlighted Canada’s trade agreements, security partnerships, and participation in multilateral forums like the G7 as part of this approach.
This dialogue underscores the critical role that cooperation among middle powers plays as nations navigate evolving geopolitical dynamics and economic uncertainties. Both Jaishankar and Anand stressed the necessity for these countries to enhance their influence in global governance and decision-making processes.