Munich Security Conference: Jaishankar Explains India’s Third Way Amid Rising U.S-China Rivalry

The Munich Leaders Meeting in Delhi centers on the evolving role of emerging and middle powers within a disrupted international order. India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. Jaishankar, and German State Secretary Bernhard Koch examine the necessity of diversifying partnerships and building resilient supply chains amid US-China competition. The discussion highlights the strategic convergence between India and the European Union, emphasizing cooperation in technology, defense, and climate action. Key insights include the shift toward multi-alignment as a pragmatic strategy for middle powers and the urgent need for reforming multilateral institutions like the UN. The dialogue underscores that while traditional power structures are under pressure, new, agenda-based collaborations—such as the India-EU Trade and Technology Council—provide a framework for navigating global turbulence. Participants also address the complexities of AI governance, the impact of regional conflicts on energy security, and the growing influence of the BRICS bloc.