External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has emphasized India’s status as a “power in the middle,” noting its significant population of 1.4 billion and an economy valued at approximately $4 trillion. Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum alongside Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, Jaishankar highlighted the increasing role of middle powers in shaping a changing global order and influencing international decision-making.
During the discussion, Jaishankar underlined how countries with shared interests are collaborating more closely to address global challenges and strengthen their strategic independence. He cited initiatives like the Quad and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as examples of strategic and economic cooperation. This collaboration is seen as a response to the geopolitical uncertainties and shifts in global economic relationships.
Jaishankar’s remarks come in the context of growing interest among emerging economies to play a more significant role in global governance. He pointed to a shift where more countries are seeking a greater say in international affairs, developing independent policies, and building partnerships based on national interests.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney had earlier called for middle powers to unite in protecting multilateralism and adapting to changes in the international system. In alignment with this call, Minister Anand urged middle powers to take a more active leadership role. She stressed the importance of protecting international rules, strengthening economic resilience, and addressing emerging security challenges.
Anand also highlighted Canada’s approach, emphasizing its trade agreements, security partnerships, and cooperation through multilateral platforms like the G7. She suggested that coordinated action among middle powers could bolster national strategic autonomy while supporting shared interests and more resilient supply chains.
The forum underscored the growing importance of cooperation among middle powers as they navigate geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and shifting global alliances. Both Jaishankar and Anand highlighted the potential for middle powers to influence the global stage through collaboration and strategic partnerships.