India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM), Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, has garnered significant praise for his diplomatic acumen, particularly from across the border in Pakistan. A respected journalist and political analyst from Pakistan recently hailed Jaishankar as a “seasoned diplomat” who has strategically navigated complex international waters with poise and professionalism. This acknowledgment holds immense weight, considering the historically tense relations between India and Pakistan. Jaishankar’s ability to command admiration from unlikely quarters underscores his growing stature on the global stage as a masterful statesman.
Jaishankar’s Journey: From Diplomat to Minister
Before delving into the praise from Pakistan, it’s important to highlight Jaishankar’s illustrious career. Born into a family of civil servants and intellectuals, Dr. Jaishankar had diplomacy in his blood from the beginning. He joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1977, and over the decades, held various pivotal positions across the world, including stints as India’s ambassador to the United States, China, and the Czech Republic. His involvement in crafting key policies, from the Indo-US nuclear deal to managing relations with China, has cemented his place as a central figure in India’s foreign policy apparatus.
In 2019, after decades of diplomatic service, Jaishankar was appointed as India’s External Affairs Minister by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His transition from diplomat to politician has been smooth, largely due to his deep understanding of international relations and an unparalleled ability to navigate high-stakes situations. This diplomatic expertise has become a hallmark of his tenure as EAM, drawing widespread respect from both within India and from countries around the world.
The Pakistani Perspective
The praise coming from a Pakistani journalist and political analyst may surprise many, given the fraught history between the two neighbours. India and Pakistan have been at odds since their partition in 1947, engaging in multiple wars and a long-standing conflict over Kashmir. Diplomatically, relations have often been frosty, with few high-level engagements over the years. Against this backdrop, Jaishankar’s diplomatic approach has not only been firm but also pragmatic, reflecting India’s evolving stance on regional and global issues.
The Pakistani journalist in question, though unnamed in the reports, referred to Jaishankar as a “seasoned diplomat” who has adeptly balanced India’s strategic interests while managing delicate relationships. In particular, Jaishankar’s articulation of India’s foreign policy at global forums, including his speeches at the United Nations and other multilateral institutions, has impressed political analysts both within India and abroad.
Jaishankar’s ability to clearly convey India’s position on contentious issues such as Kashmir, terrorism, and regional security without resorting to inflammatory rhetoric has resonated with observers in Pakistan. While India’s tough stance on terrorism and cross-border conflict remains a point of contention, Jaishankar’s approach of combining firmness with diplomatic tact has earned him grudging respect from those who may not always agree with India’s policies.
Jaishankar’s Global Impact
One of the key reasons Jaishankar has earned the moniker of a “seasoned diplomat” is his ability to navigate India through a rapidly changing global environment. In an era marked by shifting alliances, geopolitical tensions, and the rise of new global powers, India’s foreign policy requires both agility and clarity. Jaishankar has been instrumental in strengthening India’s ties with major global players like the United States, Russia, Japan, and the European Union, while also expanding India’s influence in new regions such as Africa and Latin America.
The Pakistani journalist’s praise also focused on Jaishankar’s role in positioning India as a leading voice in the Global South. Under his leadership, India has emerged as a key player in initiatives such as the BRICS grouping (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and the G20, where Jaishankar has represented India’s interests with finesse. His efforts to strengthen South-South cooperation, particularly in the areas of trade, technology, and climate change, have further enhanced India’s standing on the global stage.
A Diplomat for the 21st Century
Jaishankar’s diplomatic style is often described as a blend of traditional realism and forward-thinking pragmatism. He is known for his measured responses, carefully crafted statements, and a keen understanding of both historical context and current realities. This approach has served him well, particularly in his handling of India’s complex relationship with China. During the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, Jaishankar played a key role in de-escalating tensions while ensuring that India’s interests were safeguarded.
His ability to manage the often-volatile dynamics of India-China relations, without compromising on national security, has earned him praise from several quarters, including political analysts in Pakistan. The journalist highlighted how Jaishankar’s diplomatic finesse prevented the situation from escalating into a full-blown conflict, a testament to his experience and skill as a diplomat.
Conclusion
The recognition of S. Jaishankar’s diplomatic skills from a Pakistani journalist and political analyst is a significant testament to his effectiveness as India’s External Affairs Minister. In a region fraught with historical animosities and competing interests, Jaishankar’s approach of blending firmness with pragmatism has not only advanced India’s global stature but has also earned him respect even from those across the border.
As India continues to rise on the world stage, Jaishankar’s leadership in the realm of international diplomacy will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future. His ability to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, combined with his deep understanding of global trends, makes him a diplomat for the 21st century – and a seasoned one at that.
