Chennai, Jan 2 (PTI) Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday said India has every right to protect its citizens when dealing with “bad neighbours” and asserted that a neighbouring country cannot demand India share water while continuing to sponsor terrorism.
Without naming Pakistan, he said, “When it comes to bad neighbours who persist with terrorism, India has every right to defend its people and will do whatever is necessary. You cannot request us to share our water with you and also spread terrorism in our country.”
At the same time, Jaishankar highlighted India’s supportive stance towards “good neighbours,” citing vaccine exports during the COVID-19 pandemic, fuel and food assistance during the Ukraine conflict, and USD 4 billion aid to Sri Lanka during its financial crisis.
Speaking at IIT Madras, he underlined the importance of communication to avoid misreading India’s intentions. “If you communicate well, clearly and honestly, other countries and people respect it and accept it,” he said.
He reflected on India’s unique civilisational legacy: “There are very few ancient civilisations that have survived to become major modern nation-states, and we are one of them… It was our decision to opt for a democratic political model, which made the idea of democracy universal. Partnership with the West is also important, and that is how we shape the world.”
Jaishankar also launched the ‘IITM Global Research Foundation,’ aimed at positioning IIT Madras as a globally-networked hub for education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
He added, “Countries advance by growing at home and engaging abroad, leveraging the international environment. With limited resources, how do you have maximum impact? Indian foreign policy today seeks to solve that problem using our competitiveness, strengths, and other institutions.”
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