At the BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated a familiar yet urgent message: the world deserves a fair and representative global order. He highlighted that it must not be a system dominated by just a few powerful countries. Rather, international governance must reflect multipolar realities and respect the shared aspirations of the global south.

Jaishankar’s remarks come amid escalating trade tensions with the United States, which has imposed steep tariffs on Indian exports and issued further threats linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil. Under these circumstances, his call for a representative global order takes on added weight. He described this collective vision as a political and economic need, not a luxury. He underscored how traditions strengthen national identity and provide the backbone for confidently shaping global narratives Countries like India, which have taken shape from centuries -old heritage, can gain strength from their roots and advocate a justified system globally.

India's Foreign Ministry described America's tariff (fee) hazards as "unwanted and inappropriate". Officials also clarified that India's strategy to buy oil from Russia is based on the market requirement, not on any political support towards Moscow. They stressed India will continue protecting its national interests with resolve.

In conversation with this rising international friction, Jaishankar’s message aligns India with the growing international sentiment: a shift away from unilateral dominance toward collaboration, equity, and mutual respect in global decision-making.