UPA debates and decides to take no action after 2008 attacks, says S Jaishankar

India’s External Affairs Minister described India as a prominent voice of the ‘Global South’, consisting of approximately 125 countries. He emphasized that these countries trust India to represent their interests on the world stage. He acknowledged the challenges India faces at its borders and stressed the importance of not just posturing in public, but also focusing on infrastructure development and supporting the military to effectively defend the borders.

He referred to the previous acceptance of terrorism during the “defensive era”, particularly highlighting the inaction after the Mumbai attacks and the subsequent decision-making process. The minister noted that India now engages with the United States more confidently, marking an improvement in diplomatic relations. Regarding the export of BrahMos missiles to other countries, he indicated that it exemplifies India’s successful integration of “Make in India” initiatives with its defense sector.

He expressed confidence in India’s potential to expand its defense exports, encouraged by Prime Minister Modi’s motivation of defense producers to engage in the global market. It’s important to note that this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.