India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has underscored the country’s role as a “power in the middle,” citing its significant population of 1.4 billion and a robust economy valued at approximately $4 trillion. Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum alongside Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, Jaishankar highlighted the growing influence of middle powers in shaping the global order amidst geopolitical uncertainties and evolving economic relationships.
Jaishankar emphasized the importance of countries with shared interests collaborating to address common challenges and enhance their influence in international decision-making. He noted the increasing trend of nations evaluating their national interests independently and forming partnerships, exemplified by initiatives like the Quad and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which focus on strategic and economic priorities.
He also pointed to a shift in global governance, where more countries are seeking a decisive role in determining international affairs. This reflects a broader interest among emerging economies to strengthen cooperation while maintaining strategic independence.
The discussion came after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s call for middle powers to unite in protecting multilateralism and adapting to changes in the international system. Jaishankar reiterated that such countries should engage more closely and identify areas of aligned interests.
Anita Anand echoed these sentiments, urging middle powers to take a more active leadership role in international matters. She highlighted Canada’s approach through trade agreements, security partnerships, and participation in multilateral platforms like the G7, emphasizing that coordinated action could bolster national strategic autonomy and support shared interests, including more resilient supply chains.
The forum underscored the increasing relevance of cooperation among middle powers as they navigate geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and shifting global alliances.