Jaishankar says globalisation irreversible, calls for greater resilience amid rising global risks

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said globalisation was not going away, but countries needed to find ways to deal with growing uncertainties. India, he said, was working to strengthen its own capabilities while building partnerships with countries it could rely on.

Speaking at a session titled ‘The Continental Corridors: Who Connects the Heartland?’ at the Middle East edition of the Raisina Dialogue in Abu Dhabi, Jaishankar said competition between countries had grown sharper, new chokepoints had emerged and nations were increasingly using their advantages to further their interests.

His remarks come amid continuing tensions in West Asia, where attacks on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz have raised concerns over shipping and trade. The key maritime route has been under pressure since the US-Iran war began.


“Globalisation cannot be reversed, but it must be navigated with greater resilience,” Jaishankar said.

He also spoke about the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), saying the project had already begun to influence discussions around connectivity in the region.

“As the global landscape evolves, India is building its own strengths and establishing trusted partnerships,” he said.

First announced at the G20 Summit in New Delhi in September 2023, IMEC aims to link India, the Gulf and Europe through transport, energy and digital networks. The proposed corridor is expected to improve trade links and bring the three regions closer economically.

Jaishankar arrived in the UAE on Wednesday for a three-day official visit aimed at reviewing bilateral ties and exploring further cooperation.

On Wednesday, he had also called for changes to multilateral institutions to better reflect the shifting global order. He said cooperation among smaller groups of countries could help move reforms forward.