External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that India-Bangladesh ties must be based on mutual respect. Speaking at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum in New Delhi today, he said that for any relationship to work, it has to meet the test of mutual interest. India wants positive, constructive and forward-looking relations with Bangladesh based on mutuality of interests and reciprocity.

 

The External Affairs Minister also described Pakistan as a unique country in the world, as there is no other nation that uses terrorism so systematically and in a sustained manner to attack and put pressure on a neighbour.

 

He said that India must remain engaged with the world’s major economies while strengthening its own industrial and economic capabilities. Dr Jaishankar emphasised that the emerging global environment requires countries to reduce vulnerabilities, broaden their economic options and prepare for disruptions rather than rely on assumptions of stability. The Minister further stressed that growing geopolitical and economic tensions are creating new challenges for countries and businesses.

 

He proposed a four-part approach to navigate these pressures, which include reducing risks, diversifying partnerships and sources, addressing market distortions and maintaining a margin of safety.

Talking about India-China relations, Dr Jaishankar said India should continue doing business with China while developing the domestic strength needed to compete with it.