Thiruvananthapuram, — In a thought-provoking lecture, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar underscored the significance of adhering to ethics and principles in international relations, acknowledging that occasional divergences are accepted when situations demand.
While delivering the third ‘P Parameswaran ji Memorial Lecture,’ Jaishankar stated, “Ethics and principles should be the norm. But if you follow the law, sometimes when a situation requires, divergences are accepted.” He emphasized that for a nation like India, doing the right thing with the world is the ideal approach, but exceptions may be warranted in specific situations.
Jaishankar, at the helm of the foreign ministry for the past five years, reiterated India’s commitment to the “India-first approach” in its external policies. Notably, India maintained its course, increasing crude purchases from Russia despite criticism from the West following the Ukraine war outbreak.
The minister also highlighted India’s active participation in the Quad, a strategic alliance with the US, Australia, and Japan, despite concerns about potential strains with Russia and China.
Discussing the contemporary emphasis on a rules-based international order, Jaishankar drew inspiration from the teachings of Ramayana. “Today there is a big talk about what is called a rules-based order… You cannot find a better example of the striving for rules, for creating a system based on good conduct than you will find in Ramayana,” he expressed.
With the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya approaching, Jaishankar reflected on Lord Rama’s conduct in the Ramayana, emphasizing the importance of evaluating a nation’s conduct within a rules-based order.
As India gears up for significant events, including the temple consecration and impending general elections, Jaishankar’s insights shed light on the country’s diplomatic stance in a complex global landscape.
