EAM Jaishankar Discusses Strengthening India-Nepal Ties and Regional Diplomacy at Strategic Conundrums Book Launch

India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, delivered a significant address at the Vivekananda International Foundation during the release of Rajiv Sikri’s book, “Strategic Conundrums: Reshaping India’s Foreign Policy.” In his speech, Dr. Jaishankar delved into the evolving economic and strategic landscape of India’s relations with its neighbors, particularly focusing on Nepal.

He highlighted the complexities of transitioning from a historical relationship with Nepal to a more contemporary one, a key theme in Sikri’s book. Dr. Jaishankar acknowledged that the close ties between the two nations come with both opportunities and challenges but noted that substantial progress has been made in recent years.

‘Closeness cuts both ways’, EAM Dr S Jaishankar on India Nepal ties; Emphasizes on power trade, & that Nepal exports 1000 MW of power to India. pic.twitter.com/ww14jaaosG

— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 30, 2024

A key area of this progress is in power trade, with Nepal now exporting nearly 1,000 megawatts of electricity to India, showcasing the mutual benefits of this cooperation. He also emphasized India’s increased efforts to facilitate transit and trade for Nepal, strengthening the connectivity between the two countries over the past decade.

EAM Dr S Jaishankar points to ‘China’s presence & activities in respect to Sri Lanka’ in terms of strategic/national security perspective for India; Points to how Delhi came ‘forward’ when Sri Lanka was in ‘deep’ economic trouble. pic.twitter.com/10bjc2fZM2

— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 30, 2024

Dr. Jaishankar extended his discussion to the broader South Asian region, particularly addressing India’s relations with Sri Lanka. He spoke about the difficulties inherited by the Modi government in managing the relationship, especially in light of historical suspicions and contemporary strategic concerns, including China’s presence in the region. Despite these challenges, he pointed out a positive shift in Sri Lankan public perception towards India, especially after India’s timely and substantial assistance during Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis.

The Minister’s remarks underscored India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with its neighbors, including Bhutan and the Maldives, through enhanced cooperation in various sectors such as power, fuel, and the movement of goods. This evolving regional diplomacy, as Dr. Jaishankar suggested, is key to reshaping India’s foreign policy in the region.