S Jaishankar gives grim 5-year outlook amid global tensions and US election
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India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar (file photo)
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has issued a sobering prediction about the global landscape over the next five years, citing growing military tensions in West Asia, the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, challenges in Southeast Asia, economic instability, and the looming threat of climate change.
Speaking at an event in Delhi, Jaishankar highlighted these issues as significant threats to global stability.
He emphasized the need for a stronger India-US relationship, especially as the world anxiously awaits the outcome of the upcoming US presidential election, where many speculate a possible return of Donald Trump. Jaishankar, while expressing his general optimism, cautioned that the world is currently navigating an "exceptionally difficult period."
His remarks come as the US and European allies urge Iran to de-escalate tensions following Israel's attack on Gaza, with Iran and its ally Hezbollah vowing retaliation. India, caught in a diplomatic tightrope between its relationships with the involved parties, has urged for restraint and the resolution of conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy.
Jaishankar also touched on the economic challenges exacerbated by these conflicts, such as rising fuel and fertilizer prices due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He noted that these issues, along with other disruptions like pirate attacks in the Red Sea and climate change, are contributing to global instability.
Despite the grim outlook, Jaishankar stressed the importance of India-US ties, suggesting that the relationship is crucial beyond just treaties. However, he refrained from commenting on the specifics of the upcoming US election, expressing confidence that India can work with whoever is elected.
The 2024 US presidential election sees current Vice President Kamala Harris running as the Democratic candidate after President Joe Biden stepped down, with Harris facing former President Donald Trump, who is seeking a second term after being impeached twice.