New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, while emphasizing the strong bilateral relations between India and the United States, described former US President Donald Trump as an “American nationalist” on Thursday. Speaking at an interactive session at Hansraj College, Delhi University (DU), Jaishankar outlined the evolving nature of global diplomacy and India’s approach to it.
When asked whether Trump is a friend or foe of India, Jaishankar responded, “I recently attended his (Trump’s) inauguration ceremony, and we were treated well. I believe he is an American nationalist.”
He acknowledged that Trump’s policies could bring significant changes to global affairs but asserted that India’s foreign policy would continue to be guided by national interest. Jaishankar remarked, “Yes, he (Trump) will change many things, and some might not align with our expectations, but we must remain open in terms of foreign policy for the benefit of the country.” He added, “There might be issues where we do not agree, but there will also be many areas where things will work in our favor.”
Jaishankar also emphasized the strong personal rapport between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump, stating, “Our relationship with the US is strong, and Modi shares a good personal bond with Trump.”
During the session, he spoke about India’s growing global influence and the shifting perceptions about the country. He quipped, “Nowadays, even non-Indians claim to be Indian because they feel it helps them get a better seat on a flight.”
Reflecting on his journey from education and diplomacy to politics, Jaishankar remarked, “I never thought I would become a bureaucrat. Politics came to me suddenly—call it fate or call it Modi. He (PM Modi) elevated me in such a way that no one could refuse.”
Jaishankar also pointed out that Indians living abroad still rely on their homeland for support, stating, “Wherever they go, they come to us. Outside India, we are their protectors.”