External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar recently shared his thoughts about India’s shifting relationship with Pakistan. Speaking at Charotar University of Science and Technology in Gujarat, he highlighted the lasting impact of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. This tragic event shifted how many Indians viewed Pakistan. It became clear that tolerance for such aggression was no longer an option.
On November 26, 2008, ten terrorists from Pakistan attacked several sites in Mumbai, leading to a horrific loss of 166 lives over nearly three days. This tragedy united people from all political backgrounds in India, inspiring a collective demand for a tougher stance. Jaishankar remarked that the attack was pivotal, signaling a moment when the public began to insist that such behavior from a neighboring country was unacceptable.
Reflecting on the past decade, Jaishankar noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has undergone significant transformation, both economically and politically. In contrast, he criticized Pakistan for persisting in what he called its "bad habits." When questioned about the Indian government’s limited public discourse on Pakistan, Jaishankar stressed the importance of focusing on more pressing matters.
“The world has changed, and so has India,” he said. “Pakistan, unfortunately, remains stuck in its old ways.” He implied that the lack of change in Pakistan’s approach made discussions seem futile.
Jaishankar also hinted at the political climate during the 2008 attacks, suggesting that the then-government may not have fully grasped the strong public sentiment against terrorism. According to him, since 2014, there has been a clear message to Pakistan: any terrorist action would have real consequences.
He pointed to a broader context, mentioning that while India has advanced globally, Pakistan continues to grapple with its own issues, including a resurgence of the very terrorism they once exported. "Our brand today is technology," he stressed, noting how India’s future lies in advancements like Artificial Intelligence, Electric Vehicles, and space exploration.
In addition, Jaishankar discussed the recent developments in Afghanistan. As the U.S. and NATO withdrew, Pakistan’s attempt to play both sides in the conflict became untenable. The loss of strategic advantage backfired, contributing to ongoing instability within Pakistan.
Jaishankar also touched on the lessons learned from the 2020 standoff with China in Galwan Valley. He emphasized India’s resolute response, reaffirming that in times of crisis, a strong and clear stance is essential.
Furthermore, he praised the entrepreneurial spirit growing in India. "More people are starting their businesses," Jaishankar said, highlighting technology’s role in creating new opportunities. He emphasized that in a country’s vast economy, the government can’t be the only option for employment. People are seeking pathways through self-employment and entrepreneurship.
As India looks towards the future, the narrative of resilience and progress is clear. The contrast between India and Pakistan’s paths provides a sobering reflection on the impact of political choices and historical events. Ultimately, the country’s focus on innovation and self-reliance marks a significant shift towards shaping its own narrative and destiny.
For further insights, you can explore India’s evolving geopolitical landscape at the Ministry of External Affairs.
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