Saran emphasised that India is in a strong position today due to its continued economic growth, demographic scale, and political stability. “India is in a good place today… we are one of the few large emerging economies still growing at a reasonably rapid rate,” he said, noting that these are assets that can be effectively leveraged in foreign policy and global negotiations.
He dismissed the idea that India should choose between unipolarity and multipolarity, pointing out that “multipolarity is a certain state, not a choice.” Power today is more diffused globally, and India must pursue its interests without succumbing to external pressure—whether from the United States or China.
On US President Donald Trump’s approach to trade and diplomacy, Saran noted that some elements of his legacy may endure beyond his presidency, but others are likely to fade. “There are certain things that will continue even when Trump is no longer in office,” he said.While acknowledging the current global instability, Saran rejected the notion that global chaos is the new normal. “What we are facing is chaotic. I do not think it is ‘normal’ in the sense that this is what the future is going to be.”
He also pointed to India’s improving relationship with China as a tactical move to manage pressure from Washington. “If Donald Trump is putting pressure on India, you also see a move by India and China to improve their relations… the ability of others to exploit the differences between the two is diminished.”
On the ongoing delays in the India-US trade deal, Saran downplayed concerns, calling them part of a broader trend. “This strategy of keeping your trade partners off balance to get a better deal only takes you so far,” he said. He argued that Trump’s bilateral tactics are reaching a point of diminishing returns, as other major economies now consider coordinated responses.
Asked whether India should consider walking away if pressured to compromise on agriculture, dairy, or strategic ties with Russia, Saran was unequivocal. “I see no reason why we should succumb to any demand being made by the United States if something is not in our interest,” he said. Drawing on history, he added, “Even when India was much weaker… it stood alone” on key issues like the Non-Proliferation Treaty. “If it comes to that point, India will take a stand.”
Watch the accompanying video for more
