Ambassador Jaishankar Visits Havard

The Ambassador of the Republic of India to the United States, Dr. S. Jaishankar, delivered an address entitled “India-U.S. Ties: The Long View” and led a discussion with experts, fellows and students on April 17 as part of the Future of Diplomacy Project’s third annual “South Asia Week.” He explored the history of the bilateral relationship between India and the United States and expressed optimism about the relationship’s future prospects.

Ambassador Jaishankar highlighted areas of U.S.-India cooperation during the 1950s and 1960s, especially in regards to agriculture.  He also noted India’s strong ties with the U.S.S.R. during the same period and the complicating effect it had had on the U.S.-India relationship. “India, on its part, sought to leverage US capabilities while keeping a distance. By resisting pressures to fall in line and safeguarding its interests, India built its political brand,” he said.

Nations do have long-term interests, said Ambassador Jaishankar, and that “consolidating and building on its hard won independence is [India’s] primary objective.” India seeks a world of greater prosperity, freedom and pluralistic societies – like the United States. Therefore, “India and the United States are today positioned to embark on a more closely collaborative path.”

The 2013-2014 academic year “South Asia Week” also featured the Ambassador of Pakistan, Jalil Abbas Jilani, and the Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Nisha Desai Biswal.