Paris: India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a sharp and candid message in Paris, warning that Europe is passing through a period of deep crisis that could have serious consequences for global security. Speaking alongside French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, Jaishankar called for a broader rethinking of the global order and stressed that countries like India and France must shoulder greater responsibility to stabilise the world.
Addressing diplomats and policymakers, Jaishankar said Europe—long regarded as a moral and diplomatic guide for the world—is now confronting severe internal and external challenges. He noted that the continent is facing political uncertainty, economic pressure, and security dilemmas that could destabilise not just Europe but the wider international system.
According to Jaishankar, the world is entering an era marked by unpredictability and fragmentation. Ongoing global crises, including developments in regions such as Latin America and West Asia, reflect a breakdown of traditional power structures and international consensus. In this environment, he argued, relying on outdated global frameworks is no longer sufficient.
The minister underlined the need for an open global discussion on how the world order is shaped and who gets to define international rules. His remarks were widely seen as an indirect critique of long-standing Western dominance in global institutions and a renewed push for reforms, particularly in bodies like the United Nations Security Council.
Europe at a Turning Point
Jaishankar observed that Europe, which once played a decisive role in shaping global policies, is now reassessing its own strategic direction. With shifting alliances, leadership changes in the United States, and continuing geopolitical tensions, Europe is searching for stability in an increasingly uncertain world.
Diplomatic experts believe Jaishankar’s comments reflect growing concerns about Europe’s security preparedness and economic resilience. His remarks suggest that global leadership can no longer rest on a single region or group of countries, and that emerging powers must be included in decision-making processes.
India and France as Global Stabilisers
Highlighting the importance of cooperation, Jaishankar said India and France share a responsibility that goes beyond bilateral ties. Their partnership, he noted, plays a crucial role in maintaining balance in a fractured geopolitical landscape.
“We are living in a highly unstable and divided world,” he said, adding that coordinated action between India and France is essential to preserve international stability.
Jaishankar pointed out that India’s leadership role in groupings like BRICS, France’s influence within the G7, and both countries’ active participation in the G20 demonstrate their shared commitment to a multipolar and inclusive global order. Their collaboration across diplomacy, defense, technology, and climate initiatives, he said, is vital for sustaining global equilibrium.
France: India’s Trusted European Partner
While his assessment of Europe was frank, Jaishankar was emphatic in praising France as India’s most reliable and long-standing strategic partner in Europe. He highlighted France’s consistent support for India’s strategic autonomy and its role in strengthening cooperation in defense manufacturing, space exploration, and civil nuclear energy.
The minister stressed that continued dialogue and trust between New Delhi and Paris are essential at a time when global alliances are under strain.
Macron’s Visit and AI Summit
A key objective of Jaishankar’s visit to Paris was to prepare the ground for French President Emmanuel Macron’s upcoming visit to India. President Macron is expected to attend the AI Summit next month, reinforcing the collaboration initiated when Prime Minister Narendra Modi co-chaired the previous AI Summit in Paris.
Officials indicated that Macron’s visit could see new agreements in defense, space, and advanced technologies, marking another milestone in the India-France strategic partnership.
A Call for Shared Global Leadership
Jaishankar’s remarks signal India’s growing confidence on the global stage and its willingness to speak candidly about shifting power dynamics. By calling on India and France to act as stabilising forces, he positioned both nations as key players in shaping a more balanced, cooperative, and resilient global order.