External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar today said India is engaging with global partners more intensively from a position of strength, citing recently concluded trade deals as evidence of growing economic confidence.

 

Addressing the Global Economic Cooperation Conference in Mumbai, he said the world is witnessing the weaponisation of production and finance, tightening export controls, and increasing volatility. He described the current phase as one of the most turbulent in living memory, with the global order undergoing significant change.

 

Referring to recent developments, Dr. Jaishankar noted that after a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, the US reduced tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from 50 per cent. He also highlighted the conclusion of negotiations on a proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union.

 

He said India is de-risking and diversifying partnerships, with practical and people-centric policies strengthening its position as a trusted global partner. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was also present at the inaugural session.