Drawing from his extensive diplomatic experience, Jaishankar highlighted a poignant example from his interactions with American counterparts on Afghanistan.
Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar emphasized the need to shape international relations with distinct Indian characteristics during a conference in Pune. The 'International Relations Conference on India's Strategic Culture: Addressing Global and Regional Challenges' served as the backdrop for his insights into the importance of delving into India's rich reservoir of culture, knowledge, history, and traditions, as reported by PTI.
Drawing from his extensive diplomatic experience, Jaishankar highlighted a poignant example from his interactions with American counterparts on Afghanistan. He pointed out that even after two decades in the region, their understanding was largely shaped by the British narrative. Mentioning the Durand Line, the international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, he urged a reevaluation of perspectives, emphasizing the need for a more culturally nuanced approach.
The minister underscored the limitations of Western perspectives, noting the lack of awareness among those who spent their lives in Afghanistan about figures like Hari Singh Nalwa, the legendary Sikh warrior. This, he argued, revealed the importance of viewing global dynamics through diverse cultural lenses.
Jaishankar criticized the tendency to overlook India's historical depth, contrasting it with the readily accepted antiquity of Chinese history. He highlighted the disparity in acknowledging India's rich history, citing historical figures like Churchill, who once dismissed India as no more a country than an equator.
Furthermore, the minister pointed out the pervasive influence of Western intellectual concepts and traditions, urging a broader recognition of India's contributions. He challenged the dominance of European thinkers by highlighting that concepts like Pyrrhic victory, Gordian knots, and Trojan horse originated from Indian traditions, notably predating their European counterparts.
In essence, Minister Jaishankar called for a recalibration of international relations, urging a more comprehensive understanding of India's cultural and historical context to foster relationships that align with Indian characteristics.