External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar recently articulated India’s position on dealing with its neighbors and combating terrorism. Speaking at IIT Madras on Friday, the minister highlighted that while some neighbors may pose challenges, India reserves the right to protect its populace.
India’s Right to Self-Protection
Dr. Jaishankar emphasized that if any nation deliberately, persistently, and without remorse, continues to engage in terrorism, India possesses the inherent right to safeguard its citizens from such acts. He clarified that the method of exercising this right remains at India’s discretion, and no external entity can dictate the nation’s course of action. He affirmed that India is committed to undertaking all necessary measures for its self-preservation.
The minister also noted that a long-standing agreement on water sharing had been established years ago. However, the presence of terrorism for decades undermines the essence of a good neighborly spirit.
Views on Regional Dynamics and Cooperation
In his address, Dr. Jaishankar also touched upon regional relationships, referencing a recent visit to Bangladesh. He stated that he had represented India at the funeral of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia in Bangladesh just two days prior. He observed that India encounters a variety of neighbors, and where a neighbor proves to be beneficial or at least not detrimental, India actively invests, provides assistance, and shares resources, fostering a spirit of cooperation.
During the event, Dr. S. Jaishankar also inaugurated the Shastra 2026 program at IIT Madras.
