Jaishankar takes a dig on Nehru's China first policy

In a recent statement, India's External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, emphasized the country's foreign policy approach, highlighting the influence of realism originating from India's first home minister, Sardar Patel. The minister asserted that the Modi government has been aligning itself with a pragmatic approach, especially in dealing with China, in contrast to the idealistic stance of Jawaharlal Nehru. He said “I argue for dealing with China from a basis of realism – that strain of realism, which I feel strains all the way from [former home minister] Sardar [Vallabhbhai] Patel to Narendra Modi. That is the strain of realism which I feel should allow us to have a certain approach. I would say the Modi government has been very much more…in conformity with a strain of realism, which originated from Sardar Patel.”

Sharp divide in India's approach/policy to China

Jaishankar underlined the historical divergence in opinions between Patel and Nehru on issues related to China. He cited instances, including debates about the UN Security Council seat, where Patel prioritized India's interests over China's. The minister pointed out the evolution of India's foreign policy, noting a persistent tension between realistic and idealistic perspectives.

He said “Even when it came...to the UN Security Council seat, it’s not my case that we should have necessarily taken the seat, it’s a different debate, but to say that we should first let China – China’s interest should come first, it’s a very peculiar statement to make.”

Building a mutually beneficial relationship with China

The ongoing military standoff between India and China has strained bilateral ties. Jaishankar, however, expressed India's current engagement as an effort to construct a relationship based on mutual respect, sensitivity, and interest. He emphasized the importance of recognizing this mutuality for any meaningful progress in bilateral relations.

Addressing recent developments, Jaishankar commented on the proposed Quad Summit and the change in the chief guest for India's Republic Day celebrations. Originally considering President Joe Biden as the chief guest, the event will now feature French President Emmanuel Macron.

The minister also touched upon criticisms of India's democracy indicators, dismissing foreign media narratives as a "mind game." While acknowledging room for improvement, he urged a closer examination of motives and agendas behind such critiques.

Highlighting the initiatives to strengthen ties with West Asian countries, Jaishankar discussed Modi's vision for a "new construct" after coming to power in 2014. He emphasized the need to enhance political engagement in regions like the Gulf, which, despite proximity, had been politically neglected.

In conclusion, Jaishankar's remarks shed light on India's evolving foreign policy, emphasizing the delicate balance between realism and idealism in navigating international relations, particularly in the context of India's relationship with China.

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