New Delhi | October 5, 2026
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has described the United States’ changing global posture and China’s growing influence as two major developments reshaping the international order.
Speaking at the Munich Leaders Meeting in New Delhi, Jaishankar said the US had “deliberately become a lonelier power” as part of what he described as a significant repositioning of Washington’s foreign policy.
US-China Competition Reshaping Global Politics
Jaishankar said the growing competition between the US and China was influencing countries beyond the two major powers.
He noted that nations were increasingly using their economic, strategic and diplomatic leverage as tools of influence. The minister also pointed to the growing complexity of global interdependence alongside intensifying geopolitical competition.
India’s Role in a Changing World
Jaishankar said India could experience several decades of strong economic growth, supported by its demographic profile.
He also suggested that India may not necessarily have to follow the same industrialisation path taken by earlier economies, given the opportunities created by technology and new economic models.
India-Russia Ties Remain Important
Jaishankar also highlighted the historical relationship between India and Russia, noting Moscow’s long-standing support for New Delhi.
His comments come as India continues to maintain relations with Russia while also engaging with the US, China and other major powers amid a more fragmented international environment.
India and a More Multipolar World
Jaishankar has previously described the global system as moving towards greater multipolarity, arguing that countries will increasingly need to diversify partnerships and maintain relationships with multiple centres of power.
The comments reflect India’s emphasis on strategic flexibility as geopolitical competition intensifies and global economic and security relationships continue to evolve.
