Why India Remains Calm Amid Global Concerns Following Trump’s Election Win: Insights from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar

New Delhi : In a recent address at the 25th Silver Jubilee Scholarship Program by Aditya Birla Group in Mumbai, Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar shared India’s perspective on global developments following Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election. Unlike several countries expressing anxiety over the election outcome, Jaishankar affirmed that India remains unperturbed. He attributed this to the robust diplomatic relationships India has forged with the U.S. across multiple administrations.

Jaishankar emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unique ability to establish strong connections with U.S. leaders, regardless of their political affiliations. Modi has worked alongside Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden, showcasing the Indian Prime Minister’s consistency and adaptability in fostering diplomatic ties. Jaishankar remarked, “There is something natural in terms of how he forges those relationships... I know many countries are nervous about the US today, but let’s be honest. We are not one of them.”

Modi's Commitment to Strengthening India-U.S. Relations
Shortly after Trump’s victory, PM Modi was among the first three world leaders to extend his congratulations, signaling India’s proactive approach to renewing its strategic alliance with the United States. Modi’s message on X (formerly Twitter) conveyed his optimism for collaborative efforts toward enhancing the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, with a focus on fostering “global peace, stability, and prosperity.” He urged Trump to take a proactive role in addressing ongoing global challenges, including the Middle East crises and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

India’s Global Aspirations and Vision for “Viksit Bharat”
Jaishankar also highlighted the increasing aspirations of Indian citizens in exploring global opportunities for education, tourism, and work, which he sees as a crucial component of India’s development journey. He underscored how this international outlook complements India’s goals of becoming a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India). Jaishankar asserted that India's foreign policy has evolved, now focusing not only on national security but also on advancing economic and developmental goals.

“This deeper linkage between the external world and our national endeavours offers us crucial opportunities to accelerate the path towards a Viksit Bharat. In fact, we take it so seriously that I can declare that foreign policy now has fundamentally purposed to advancing national development, apart from ensuring national security,” Jaishankar stated.

India’s confidence in navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing global environment reflects its enhanced stature and maturity on the world stage. The resilience of India-U.S. relations and Modi’s adeptness in cultivating enduring alliances highlight India’s preparedness to work with any leadership in Washington, while steadfastly pursuing its national and global ambitions.