External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that a country cannot truly be global until it remains connected to its roots. Speaking at the lead-up event for the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai, he said globalization should reflect the “enormous diversity” of people worldwide.
“The world is already witnessing economic and political rebalancing, and this shift is now extending to technology and culture as well,” Jaishankar said. “Real globalization is not about a single truth; it’s about embracing the diversity of our planet. We are really never global until we are truly local.”
Mumbai as a Symbol of Global-Local Balance
Jaishankar emphasized that Mumbai is the perfect venue for WAVES 2025 as it represents the essence of cultural and economic integration.
“It is appropriate that WAVES 2025 takes place in Mumbai, a city whose identity captures the spirit of this endeavor,” he added.
Diplomats’ Role in Strengthening Global Ties
He encouraged ambassadors and diplomats present at the event to foster stronger connections between their home countries and India’s industry.
“So today, I urge all ambassadors and diplomats to introduce their respective governments, industries, and talent to this shared enterprise. Ambassadors play a key role in influencing their home nations, and their involvement will be crucial for the summit’s success,” he stated.
WAVES 2025: A Convergence of Industries
In a post on X, Jaishankar highlighted WAVES 2025 as a fusion of various industries, including cinema, digital media, content creation, IT, and India’s global capability centers.
“WAVES 2025 represents the coming together of cinema, the digital world, content revolution, IT industry, and India’s global capability centers. In many ways, it captures real globalization and the enormous diversity of our planet,” he posted.