Also Read| Neighbours know – if there is trouble, India will always help: MEA
Jaishankar pointed out that the trade deficit with China, which many countries, including India, are concerned about, stems from a longstanding oversight of China’s economic advantages. He stressed that China poses a unique challenge due to its distinct political and economic systems, and understanding this uniqueness is crucial for formulating effective policies.
“There is a general China problem. We are not the only country in the world which is having a debate about China,” Jaishankar said, noting that the issue is also prominent in Europe and the United States. However, he clarified that India’s situation is distinct, given its direct border issues with China. “India has a China problem… a special China problem that is over and above the world’s general China problem.”
Jaishankar underscored the importance of scrutinizing Chinese investments in India, particularly given the current state of relations and the sensitive nature of the border situation. He also noted that other countries, even those without direct borders with China, are similarly cautious about Chinese investments. “The issue is not do you have investments with China or not, it is not a yes or no answer, it is what should be the appropriate level of scrutiny and how should you handle it,” he explained.
The minister also discussed the broader global context, noting ongoing conflicts and rising tensions in various regions, which have heightened geopolitical risks. He emphasized that managing and mitigating these risks has become a central concern for governments worldwide, as they navigate the complexities of international relations in the current era.