Speaking at the CII Partnership Summit 2024, Dr. S. Jaishankar underscored India’s essential position in a swiftly changing global environment, stressing that partnerships are fundamental to advancement. “India and the World” effectively captures the country’s growing global presence, a path marked by economic achievements and strategic partnerships.
India, now the world’s fifth-largest economy, seeks deeper collaborations to meet heightened global expectations. Amidst economic volatility, India emerges as a stabilizing force, contributing to technological progress and diversified growth engines. The world, grappling with challenges from manufacturing and logistics to AI and clean energy, faces a demographic imbalance where innovation demands skilled human resources. As Dr. Jaishankar noted, “The very economic landscape we are looking at is in the midst of a deep transformation. Responding effectively cannot be just a national endeavor.”
Strategically, global dynamics are shifting. The backlash against globalization has unveiled vulnerabilities in international systems. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored external dependencies, while the US-China rivalry and the Ukraine conflict intensified global insecurities. For nations like India, this tumult underscores the need for reliable partnerships.
India’s approach to partnerships extends beyond traditional frameworks. Its burgeoning manufacturing capabilities, bolstered by initiatives like Gati Shakti, and its focus on infrastructure have positioned it as a hub for resilient supply chains. Meanwhile, advancements in AI, semiconductors, and electric mobility underscore its commitment to shaping the digital age. As Dr. Jaishankar remarked, “The digital era intensifies the compulsions to forge trusted partnerships.”
The minister also touched on India’s global collaborations, from the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to projects with Myanmar and Thailand, designed to reshape connectivity routes and economic flows. With the Global South, India supports 78 nations through development projects, exemplifying its ethos of shared progress.
Ultimately, India’s partnerships abroad hinge on fostering strength at home. Whether through expanding its manufacturing base or preparing its workforce for a globalized era, India’s strategy is clear: to lead with resilience and innovation. “The world’s image of India,” Jaishankar concluded, “is shaped by actual experiences… in partnering together, we may get the best value for ourselves.”
