The government will do what it takes to ensure national well-being, he said

India will never accept any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo along its border, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday in a veiled reference to China.

When it comes to security, the government will do what it takes to ensure national well-being, he pointed out. "A posture that departs from established understandings will evoke its own responses," he added.

"We have overcome the hesitations of history and will not allow anyone a veto on our choices," he emphasised.

Addressing foreign diplomatic corps in New Delhi at an event to mark eight years of the Narendra Modi government, EAM Jaishankar also acknowledged the role of "trusted partners who work with us to help keep India safe and secure every day".

FOREIGN POLICY DISPLAYING GREATER CLARITY

According to EAM Jaishankar, Indian foreign policy thinking is displaying greater conceptual and operational clarity. "Whether it is explanation or communication, some of the contemporary catch phrases have been impactful in their public resonance," he pointed out.

The Neighbourhood First policy was now clearly associated with a generous and non-reciprocal approach to India's immediate proximity, he said.

"Our investments in connectivity, expansion of contacts and promotion of cooperation have also been noteworthy. Whether it was during Covid or the current economic challenges, India has gone the extra mile for its neighbours and will continue to do so," he noted.

India had also articulated a sharp awareness of the extended neighbourhood through the Act East policy, a Sagar outlook, a Gulf engagement and a Central Asia initiative, he said. "In each case, whether it is leadership attention, diplomatic energies, practical projects or shared activity, the record is one of higher commitment," EAM Jaishankar explained.

EAM Jaishankar also hailed India for being the first responder in many situations and said the country is capable and sensitive to global expectations.

"India was the first responder during the earthquake in Nepal, the conflict in Yemen, the water crisis in the Maldives, mudslides in Sri Lanka, the typhoon in my Mymmar and the floods of Mozambique as notable examples," he highlighted.