External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has underscored India's increased global status and its potential for offering substantial aid in difficult circumstances.
Addressing the Indian community during his tour of Spain, Jaishankar said that ties between India and Spain are ready to make landmark progress.
Elaborating upon his interaction with Spain's diplomatic fraternity, Jaishankar said he had been requested by Spain's Foreign Minister to deliver a speech before the country's ambassadors at a world forum.
"It is the first time that a foreign ambassador was invited to address the global ambassadors of Spain," he said.
Eminent Strategic Analyst Nitin Pai adds that highlighting the growing influence of India, he says, "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. Seeing the situation of the world today, all countries think that having good ties with India is in their interest."
The External Affairs Minister described India as a "new India," recognized globally for its economic strength and leadership.
"Today, we are the fifth-largest economy, poised to be the third-largest. The world knows us because of our positioning, capabilities, and ideas. India is seen today as contributing to global conversations," he said.
He underlined India's unique ability to engage with diverse nations.
"There are very few countries in a position to talk to Russia and Ukraine; Israel and Iran; being members of Quad and BRICS. PM Modi is able to do both," he remarked, adding that India's approach to global challenges is guided by the principle of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas," which the world has come to value and understand.
Jaishankar highlighted efforts made by the country for calling for the presence of Africa within the G20 and reviewed how India acted at the time of the Covid-19 pandemic.
"If you travel around the globe, there are 100 countries who say, 'If we get our vaccine, it was due to India'. I recall the President of Sanchchez calling the PM Modi over Hydroxychloroquine," he said.
He emphasized India's will to help others in need and maintained, "At the time of crisis, there is a country called India that is ready to talk to and help other parties. It's not about money or resources but about heart and mind -- having the ability, thinking, and credibility to act as a bridge."
Turning to trade, Jaishankar highlighted the strong economic ties between India and Spain, with bilateral trade currently valued at 10 billion euros annually.
"There is a possibility that it will increase," he said, mentioning new areas of collaboration such as 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. The estimate of 10 billion euros might increase in the future," he added.
The Indian diaspora's contributions: Jaishankar also thanked the Indian diaspora for strengthening India's foreign policy.
"Minister Albares asked me what I was doing, and I told him I was meeting the Indian community members. I heard very good words about the community. It's something I hear across the world, and every time, I feel good. So I want to thank all of you," he said.
He remembered the recently concluded Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, congratulated winners from Spain, and thanked them for their efforts in building and reinforcing India's global standing.
On people-to-people ties, Jaishankar announced that a Spanish consulate would soon be established in Bengaluru, calling it a "good sign" for deepening India-Spain relations. He noted, "Business is becoming bigger."
Looking ahead, Jaishankar revealed plans for 2026 to be marked as a "dual year" celebrating culture, artificial intelligence, and tourism in both countries. "It will have a long-term good impact on ties," he concluded.
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