During a Lok Sabha session, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed India’s relations with its neighbors, stating that their domestic politics influence New Delhi. He advocated for maturity in dealing with these complexities and highlighted India’s commitment to regional development through various initiatives. Jaishankar responded to queries regarding recent diplomatic interactions and emphasized India’s Neighbourhood First policy focused on mutual benefits.
During a question hour in the Lok Sabha, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of maturity in India’s handling of relationships with neighboring countries, indicating that each neighbor has its own domestic political dynamics. Responding to inquiries from Congress representative Manish Tewari, Jaishankar noted that while these internal politics can influence India, it is crucial to refrain from engaging in partisan politics in matters of foreign policy. He underscored India’s commitment to regional development through various initiatives and highlighted the historical contexts of relationships with neighbors such as Maldives, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to improve ties despite the complexities involved. Additionally, Jaishankar addressed key issues surrounding security, minority rights in Bangladesh, and the implications of domestic developments in neighboring countries, reaffirming India’s Neighbourhood First policy which focuses on collaboration and mutual benefits.
The remarks made by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in the Lok Sabha provide insights into the challenges faced by India in maintaining harmonious relations with its neighbors amidst their fluctuating political landscapes. The Congressional inquiry raised points about visits by regional leaders to India and their implications for bilateral relations, reflecting a broader concern about how domestic issues and international alliances affect regional dynamics. The discussion highlights India’s strategic interest in enhancing connectivity and cooperation with neighboring countries through its Neighbourhood First policy, which aims at fostering stability and prosperity in the region.
Minister Jaishankar’s statements underscore the necessity for India to navigate its relationships with neighboring countries with maturity and strategic foresight. Acknowledging the domestic political climates of its neighbors, India aims to strengthen regional ties through development projects and diplomatic dialogue. The commitment to the Neighbourhood First policy illustrates India’s intention to foster cooperative relationships focused on mutual benefit while addressing security concerns and regional dynamics.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
