New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Sunday underlined the growing unpredictability in world affairs, stressing how even brief public statements sometimes just a few tweets can swiftly alter global dynamics.
Speaking at a panel discussion on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly, Jaishankar noted that the past year had underscored the scale of volatility confronting international relations. Without naming names, his remarks echoed the disruptive influence of US President Donald Trump’s social media posts.
“A few months make a difference. A few weeks make a difference. A few tweets make a difference,” Jaishankar said, adding that this unpredictability is “disruptive” and leaves little scope for relying on past patterns.
He highlighted how policy shifts are now unfolding in the public eye, under “the full glare of the spotlight,” magnifying their immediate impact. This, he warned, increases vulnerabilities across the global economic chain, whether in markets, supply networks, or connectivity.
“The central proposition in diplomacy today is: how do you de-risk, hedge, and build resilience against unforeseen contingencies? That’s the big challenge for the world,” the minister remarked.
A day earlier, Jaishankar had stressed the need for nations, especially large economies, to build greater self-reliance while also diversifying partnerships. Pointing to India’s growing engagement with Latin America and the Caribbean, he said New Delhi aims to expand trade and cooperation in regions beyond its traditional economic partners.
“In this turbulent atmosphere,” Jaishankar said, “it is vital to enhance capacities, ensure resilience, and prepare for uncertainties.”
