Jaishankar: World Views India as a Credible and Effective Development Partner during 9 Years of Modi Government

India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, addressed a press conference commemorating the nine-year tenure of the Narendra Modi-led government, emphasizing India’s growing reputation as a nation that delivers tangible results on the ground. As the nation prepares for the 2024 Lok Sabha election, Jaishankar has been entrusted with leading the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) month-long campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the government’s achievements in four parliamentary constituencies of New Delhi, namely New Delhi, South, North West, and West.

During the press conference, Jaishankar expressed that India is widely regarded by a significant portion of the world, especially the Global South, as a credible and effective development partner. He emphasized that India not only collaborates in development efforts but also lives up to the vision articulated by Prime Minister Modi. Jaishankar stated, “Today, the second image of India is that of an economic collaborator.”

Addressing a recent controversy surrounding the commemoration of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s death anniversary in Brampton, Canada, Jaishankar expressed bewilderment regarding the motives behind such events. He questioned why anyone would engage in such activities, apart from catering to vote bank politics. The minister highlighted a broader concern regarding the space provided to separatists, extremists, and proponents of violence, stating that it has a detrimental impact on relationships and is not in Canada’s best interest.

S. Jaishankar’s remarks shed light on India’s evolving global image as a reliable development partner, emphasizing its commitment to economic collaboration. The minister’s comments on the Brampton controversy underscore the need to address the space accorded to divisive elements that can potentially strain bilateral relationships.