A Dialogue on Geopolitics: Expert Insights from Dr Sreeram Chaulia and Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar

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India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar outlined the country’s foreign policy priorities during a discussion with Dr. Sreeram Chaulia, a foreign affairs expert, marking the 12th anniversary of key strategic initiatives. The conversation, recorded in a June 2026 interview, emphasized India’s focus on multilateral engagement, economic diplomacy, and regional security amid evolving global dynamics.

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What Are the Key Themes in India’s 12-Year Foreign Policy Review?
Jaishankar highlighted India’s sustained commitment to non-alignment, though he acknowledged the shift toward “strategic autonomy” to navigate geopolitical tensions. He cited the expansion of partnerships with the Quad (United States, Japan, Australia) and the African Union as examples of India’s broadened diplomatic reach. “We have moved from a policy of non-alignment to one of strategic autonomy, where we engage with multiple poles without formal alliances,” Jaishankar stated.

The minister also underscored economic diplomacy, noting that India’s trade volume with the Global South increased by 45% between 2014 and 2024. He attributed this growth to initiatives like the India-Africa Forum Summit and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. “Economic ties are now a cornerstone of our foreign policy, ensuring mutual growth and stability,” he said.

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How Does India’s Approach Compare to Regional Neighbors?
Chaulia asked Jaishankar about India’s balancing act with China and Pakistan. The minister described India’s strategy as “pragmatic engagement,” citing the 2023 China-India border agreements and the 2025 India-Pakistan peace talks facilitated by the United Nations. “We seek to resolve disputes through dialogue while strengthening our defense capabilities,” Jaishankar said.

Regional analysts, including Dr. Chaulia, noted that India’s emphasis on “neighborhood first” policy has faced challenges. “While India has invested in infrastructure projects in Bangladesh and Nepal, concerns about debt sustainability and political instability in some countries have complicated these efforts,” Chaulia observed.

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What Are the Business Implications of India’s Foreign Policy Shifts?
The minister addressed the business community’s role in advancing India’s global ambitions. He highlighted the 2025 India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations and the rise of Indian tech firms in African markets. “Foreign investment in India’s renewable energy sector grew by 30% in 2025, reflecting confidence in our long-term vision,” Jaishankar said.

However, he acknowledged risks, including global supply chain disruptions and the impact of U.S.-China trade tensions. “India’s role as a manufacturing hub is critical, but we must ensure policy stability to attract sustained investment,” he added.

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What Comes Next for India’s Foreign Policy?
Jaishankar outlined plans to deepen ties with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and expand India’s participation in the UN Security Council. He also emphasized the need for “digital diplomacy” to address cyber security and artificial intelligence governance.

Chaulia questioned whether India’s focus on regional security could conflict with its global ambitions. “India’s approach must balance assertiveness with inclusivity,” the expert said. Jaishankar responded by citing the 2024 India-Africa Clean Energy Partnership as an example of “win-win collaboration.”

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The discussion concluded with Jaishankar reaffirming India’s commitment to “principled pragmatism,” a phrase he described as the core of the country’s foreign policy. “We will continue to act in our national interest while contributing to global stability,” he said.

The interview, hosted by a Delhi-based think tank, was part of a series examining India’s diplomatic trajectory. No further details on upcoming policy reforms were disclosed.

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“We have moved from a policy of non-alignment to one of strategic autonomy, where we engage with multiple poles without formal alliances.”
SourceDr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India

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“India’s role as a manufacturing hub is critical, but we must ensure policy stability to attract sustained investment.”
SourceDr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India

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“India’s approach must balance assertiveness with inclusivity.”
SourceDr. Sreeram Chaulia, Foreign Affairs Expert

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The article draws on the June 2026 interview between Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Dr. Sreeram Chaulia, as reported by a Delhi-based think tank. No additional primary sources were accessed for this report.