External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s remarks on India’s neighbourhood policy have sparked widespread discussion following his recent visit to Bangladesh. Speaking at an event at IIT Madras in Chennai, Jaishankar shared insights into India’s approach towards neighbouring countries, emphasizing the principles of goodwill, strategic cooperation, and self-defense. His comments came amid ongoing protests and political unrest in Bangladesh, making them particularly relevant in the current geopolitical context.
Jaishankar highlighted India’s engagement with nations that act as “good neighbours,” outlining how India responds positively to countries that promote friendship, stability, and cooperation. At the same time, he addressed India’s stance towards “bad neighbours,” explaining that persistent hostility, terrorism, or threats to Indian interests are met with decisive measures to safeguard the nation’s security. His nuanced perspective illustrates India’s balance of diplomacy, humanitarian support, and national defense in regional relations.
The minister’s statements also underscored India’s recent acts of support to neighbouring nations, citing examples such as vaccine donations during the COVID-19 pandemic, fuel and food assistance during the Ukraine conflict, and multi-billion-dollar aid to Sri Lanka during its financial crisis. Jaishankar framed these gestures as part of a broader philosophy of common sense diplomacy, wherein cooperation is extended to those who reciprocate goodwill.
Good Neighbours: Investment, Support, and Cooperation
Jaishankar elaborated that India’s policy towards good neighbours is guided by the natural principle of reciprocity. “If you have a neighbour who is good to you, or at least not harmful, your instinct is to be kind and help,” he said. He described how India invests in developmental initiatives, humanitarian aid, and shared resources with friendly countries. From humanitarian assistance to collaborative projects, India aims to build lasting bonds based on trust and mutual benefit.
According to Jaishankar, even simple acts of engagement—such as dialogue, shared initiatives, and friendly gestures—play an important role in reinforcing diplomatic ties. Whether through economic support, health aid, or logistical collaboration, India’s efforts are intended to strengthen regional stability and demonstrate the benefits of maintaining cordial relationships.
Examples cited include vaccine distribution across South Asia during the pandemic, fuel and food support for crisis-stricken countries, and a $4 billion assistance package to Sri Lanka during its economic turmoil. These actions, Jaishankar noted, reflect India’s willingness to share resources and extend support whenever neighbourly cooperation is present.
Bad Neighbours: Defense and Strategic Measures
Turning to nations that act as bad neighbours, Jaishankar emphasized India’s right and responsibility to protect its interests. He stated that countries engaging in terrorism or hostile activities cannot expect cooperative gestures or reciprocal goodwill from India. “We will exercise that right. How we exercise that right is up to us. Nobody can tell us what we should do or not,” he said, highlighting the principle of strategic self-defense.
Jaishankar underscored that long-standing hostile behaviour, such as persistent terrorism, negates opportunities for positive engagement. Drawing attention to the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty in response to security threats, he explained that cooperative arrangements require a baseline of mutual trust and respect. When such trust is violated, India reserves the right to take measures to ensure national security and safeguard its citizens.
Through this explanation, Jaishankar framed India’s approach as one rooted in pragmatism and common sense. Cooperation is offered to those who uphold peace and stability, while deterrence and defensive strategies are employed against persistent threats. This dual approach reflects a strategic balance between diplomacy and national security imperatives.
Context of Bangladesh Visit and Regional Dynamics
Jaishankar’s remarks were made shortly after representing India at the funeral of Bangladesh’s first female prime minister, Khaleda Zia. During his visit, he conveyed condolences on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Zia’s family, emphasizing India’s commitment to neighbourly respect and engagement. The visit highlighted India’s emphasis on human connections and regional diplomacy as foundational elements of foreign policy.
The timing of Jaishankar’s speech coincided with ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, underscoring India’s need to navigate complex regional situations carefully. While India extends support and fosters goodwill, it also monitors developments that could affect bilateral relations, regional stability, or cross-border security.
By distinguishing between cooperative and hostile neighbours, Jaishankar clarified India’s strategic priorities and provided insight into how the country manages its neighbourhood policy amidst evolving regional dynamics.
Principles of India’s Neighbourhood Policy
Jaishankar’s speech at IIT Madras emphasized several key principles guiding India’s engagement with its neighbours. Firstly, cooperation is extended to those who reciprocate goodwill, fostering friendship, stability, and mutual benefit. Secondly, strategic self-defense is a necessary response to persistent threats or hostile behaviour. Finally, common sense diplomacy underpins India’s approach, balancing humanitarian support with pragmatic safeguards.
These principles have been applied in various contexts, including aid during economic crises, humanitarian interventions, and resource-sharing arrangements. By adhering to these guidelines, India seeks to maintain regional stability, protect its interests, and reinforce its role as a responsible regional actor.
Overall, Jaishankar’s remarks provide a comprehensive overview of how India navigates relationships with neighbouring countries, blending diplomacy, development, and strategic defense to achieve regional peace and mutual prosperity.
Impact and Reactions
The minister’s statements have sparked discussions across diplomatic circles and media platforms. Analysts view his comments as a reaffirmation of India’s principled stance in South Asia, emphasizing both generosity toward cooperative neighbours and firmness against hostile actions. His remarks also serve as guidance for policymakers and diplomats on balancing goodwill with security imperatives.
Public discourse following the speech has focused on India’s dual approach to diplomacy and national defense, highlighting the importance of strategic clarity when dealing with complex regional dynamics. Jaishankar’s emphasis on common sense and reciprocity has been praised as a pragmatic framework for India’s foreign policy.
In conclusion, Jaishankar’s explanation of good and bad neighbours offers insight into India’s regional strategy. By combining empathy, support, and strategic deterrence, India continues to navigate its neighbourhood with a careful balance of diplomacy, assistance, and national security considerations.
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About the Author:
Harshit Raj
