Vaccine Diplomacy: EAM Jaishankar 'Many Nations Wouldn't Have Even Smelled Vaccines Without India's Help'
Vaccine Diplomacy - EAM Jaishankar 'Many Nations Wouldn't Have Even Smelled Vaccines Without India's Help'
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar recently addressed students at IIT Madras, engaging in a comprehensive discussion on India's foreign policy, vaccine diplomacy, relations with neighboring countries, and its democratic values. He also highlighted India's ancient civilization and its growing role on the global stage, providing students with insights into the nation's rich heritage and future potential.
India's Global Footprint in Vaccine Diplomacy
Reflecting on India's role during the Covid-19 pandemic, Jaishankar remarked that in his entire career, he had never witnessed a more profound emotional impact on the world than that created by the provision of vaccines. He recounted how people would often weep remembering the first consignments of vaccines, which represented a beacon of hope during a challenging period, while the External Affairs Minister criticized developed Western nations for hoarding up to eight times their population's vaccine needs, while simultaneously denying even 10,000 doses to smaller countries. In stark contrast, India, despite the immense responsibility of its 1. 4 billion people, demonstrated global solidarity by providing 1-2 lakh doses to smaller nations.
Jaishankar quoted people from Latin America, the Caribbean, and small Pacific island nations who, to this day, express that they 'wouldn't have even smelled vaccines' had it not been for India's assistance. He underscored that India was one of the world's most. Efficient vaccine producers and leveraged this capability for global good. He also acknowledged the critical importance of global engagement and responsibility, noting that India itself received assistance from the world, particularly concerning supply chains that originated outside India. This highlights that global cooperation isn't a one-way street but rather based on mutual interdependence.The Inseparable Link Between Home and Abroad
The External Affairs Minister emphasized the notion of 'not thinking of home and abroad as separate'. He argued that even when facing domestic challenges, it's imperative to assist the world because these two spheres are intrinsically linked. This perspective aligns with India's ancient concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', where the entire world is considered one family. He stated that global challenges can only be resolved through collective efforts, a principle that India steadfastly adheres to.Neighborhood First Policy in Action
Responding to a question about India's neighborhood policy, Jaishankar referenced his recent visit. To Bangladesh, where he attended the funeral of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. He explained that while India has diverse neighbors, its inherent nature is to assist those who are good neighbors or at least don't cause harm. He elaborated that wherever India perceives a spirit of good neighborliness, it invests, assists, and shares resources. During the Covid pandemic, most neighboring countries received their first vaccine. Consignments from India, serving as a clear illustration of this policy.Sri Lanka's Case and the Rising Tide
Jaishankar also touched upon the difficult times faced by some neighbors, citing Sri Lanka, where India provided a $4 billion package even as its agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was progressing slowly, while he asserted that most neighbors understand that India's progress is a 'rising tide'. His message, which he also conveyed in Bangladesh, was that 'if India grows, everyone will grow'. This demonstrates India's commitment to regional stability and prosperity.Ancient Civilization, Modern Nation
The External Affairs Minister also expressed pride in India's unique position. He stated that India is one of the very few ancient civilizations in the world that continues to exist as a large, modern nation today. He emphasized that India is proud of its history, a history that very few countries possess, while this stands as a testament to India's cultural depth and continuity.Democracy as a Universal Idea
Jaishankar further highlighted the significance of India's adoption of democracy. He stated that by choosing democracy, India transformed it into a universal idea globally. He believed that had India not embraced democracy, this idea might have remained confined to only a few regions. This reflects India's global responsibility and its unwavering commitment to democratic values.The Philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
Finally, the External Affairs Minister articulated India's duty to present its thoughts, values, culture, and history to the world. He clarified that this can be achieved through friendly partnerships, as collaboration with Western countries is crucial. He explained the meaning of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', conveying that India has never viewed the. World as an enemy or a threat from which it needs to protect itself. This embodies India's inclusive and peaceful global outlook, aimed at making the world a better place.