Jaishankar Highlights India’s Growing Global Influence During Visit to Spain
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has underscored India’s rising global stature, emphasizing the country’s ability to offer meaningful support during challenging times. Speaking to the Indian diaspora in Spain, Jaishankar highlighted the strengthening of India-Spain relations, noting that both nations are poised for significant advancements in their bilateral ties.
Jaishankar’s visit to Spain saw him engage with the country’s diplomatic community, where he was invited by Spain’s Foreign Minister to address Spain’s ambassadors at a global conference. This marked a historic moment, as it was the first time a foreign ambassador was invited to address Spain’s global ambassadors. Reflecting on this invitation, Jaishankar said, “When a foreign ministry and ambassadors of another country ask you to come and speak to them, it’s worth thinking why. India’s positioning today is very important.”
The External Affairs Minister highlighted India’s growing influence on the global stage, noting, “Today, we are the fifth-largest economy, poised to be the third-largest. The world knows us because of our positioning, capabilities, and ideas.” He further emphasized that India’s global standing has contributed to its ability to engage in meaningful dialogues on global issues.
Jaishankar pointed out India’s unique capacity to engage with diverse nations, referencing the country’s ability to maintain diplomatic relations with countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Israel, and Iran, while also being a member of groups like the Quad and BRICS. He attributed India’s ability to bridge such diverse relationships to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and India’s approach to global challenges, encapsulated in the principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.”
Reflecting on India’s contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, Jaishankar recalled how India’s vaccine diplomacy helped hundreds of countries. He highlighted Spain’s President Pedro Sánchez’s call to Prime Minister Modi for the supply of Hydroxychloroquine, emphasizing India’s reputation as a nation willing to offer help in times of need. “In difficult times, there is a country named India, willing to talk to and help different parties. It’s not about money or resources but about heart and mind—having the ability, thinking, and credibility to act as a bridge,” he remarked.
On economic matters, Jaishankar highlighted the robust trade relations between India and Spain, with bilateral trade valued at 10 billion euros annually. He noted that this figure could grow as the two nations explore new areas of collaboration, including railways, automobiles, clean technologies, and space. “The global situation is unstable in present times. In such times, countries close to each other, who feel that supply chains and relationships can be built and expanded, will forge closer ties,” he stated, suggesting that future trade could exceed current estimates.
Jaishankar also praised the contributions of the Indian diaspora in strengthening India’s foreign policy. He expressed his appreciation for the community’s role, sharing that he often hears positive feedback about the Indian diaspora’s contributions around the world. Reflecting on the recently concluded Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, he congratulated winners from Spain for their efforts in promoting India’s global standing.
In terms of people-to-people ties, Jaishankar announced the upcoming establishment of a Spanish consulate in Bengaluru, calling it a significant step in deepening India-Spain relations. He noted, “Business is becoming bigger,” underscoring the importance of expanding economic and cultural exchanges.
Looking ahead, Jaishankar revealed plans for 2026 to be designated as a “dual year” celebrating culture, artificial intelligence, and tourism between India and Spain. He concluded, “It will have a long-term good impact on ties,” signaling the promise of further strengthening bilateral relations in the years to come.
