Global Outlook

  External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar recently made headlines with his pointed remarks aimed at the Maldives, amidst escalating tensions over the archipelago nation's accusations of being bullied by a larger neighbor. The statement, delivered at the 4th Indian Ocean Conference in Abu Dhabi, highlighted India's substantial financial assistance to its neighbors, indirectly contrasting it with the allegations of bullying. In his speech, Dr. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of mutual respect in international relations, noting that true friendship is not about "big bullying smaller" but about understanding each other's needs and standing together in times of need. He underlined India's commitment to its neighbors, pointing out that big bullies don't provide $4.5 billion in financial assistance to their neighbors, clearly referencing India's extensive aid to the Maldives. The EAM's comments come against the backdrop of strained relation...

  In a high-stakes diplomatic maneuver, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar recently met with his Canadian counterpart, Foreign Minister Antony Blinken , to discuss a range of bilateral issues. While the meeting was keenly anticipated, it raised eyebrows for one notable omission – the killing of Talwinder Singh Parmar associate and Khalistan sympathizer, Jaspal Singh Atwal Nijjar. The talks took place in the backdrop of India's concerns over the rising Khalistan movement in Canada and the alleged involvement of some Canadian citizens in supporting separatist activities in Punjab. While the two foreign ministers discussed various matters, including trade relations, climate change, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, they conspicuously refrained from addressing Nijjar's killing directly. This omission can be seen as a careful diplomatic move aimed at preventing the issue from overshadowing the broader agenda of the bilateral relationship between the two nations. Ind...