Jaishankar Calls for Greater Cooperation Among Middle Powers Amid Global Economic Uncertainty

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has called for more active cooperation among countries positioned between the world’s largest powers, saying they should work together on issues where shared interests can produce practical results.

Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in New Delhi on Wednesday, Jaishankar described the changing international environment as one in which countries increasingly use control over finance, resources and supply chains to advance their geopolitical interests.

He argued that countries commonly described as “middle powers” need to engage more actively with one another and identify areas where cooperation can make a meaningful difference. India, he indicated, prefers the expression “powers in the middle” to describe its position in the changing global order.

The remarks came during a discussion involving Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Jaishankar highlighted the growing importance of economic and technological dependencies in international relations. Financial systems, sanctions, critical minerals and supply chains have become significant factors in how countries exercise influence and respond to geopolitical challenges.

His comments point to the need for countries to strengthen partnerships and consider ways to reduce vulnerabilities arising from excessive dependence on particular markets, resources or financial channels.

For India, cooperation with a wider range of international partners remains an important part of its engagement on trade, technology, energy security and regional stability. Such cooperation can also give countries more options when responding to disruptions in the global economy.

The discussion took place against a backdrop of shifting economic relationships and increasing competition over strategic resources. Jaishankar’s remarks emphasised the importance of practical partnerships and coordinated engagement as countries navigate these changes.

The forum brought together political and economic leaders to discuss the forces shaping international trade, investment and global cooperation.