At an Asia Society event in New York, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the increasing complexities in global diplomacy due to a decline in adherence to international rules. He noted that this trend is giving rise to new “choke points” in global affairs, affecting strategic waterways, financial systems, and market access.
Jaishankar pointed out that countries are leveraging their geographic and economic influence in an increasingly competitive international environment. He cited the Strait of Hormuz as a geographical choke point and mentioned the impact of financial restrictions through sanctions. Additionally, he noted that countries with significant influence are utilizing travel and market-access restrictions as leverage against competitors and adversaries.
The minister emphasized a growing tension between competition and interdependence in international relations. Despite heightened competition over strategic and economic interests, global economies and supply chains remain deeply interconnected. This interdependence creates a challenging environment for diplomacy, as governments strive to balance competitive desires with the practical constraints of interconnected systems.
Jaishankar explained that the combination of competition and interdependence has increased the complexity of international diplomacy. Countries are now tasked with managing strategic rivalries while maintaining essential economic and political ties. This dynamic, according to Jaishankar, underscores the need for nuanced diplomatic strategies that can navigate both rivalry and cooperation.