Jaishankar: India Rejects BRICS Currency, Advocates for Global Diplomacy

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that there are currently no plans to create a BRICS currency which would involve Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 100% tariff on BRICS countries if they decided to go ahead with such a currency. Jaishankar clarified, “India has never supported changing from the dollar,” emphasizing that not all BRICS countries agree on this issue.

Jaishankar is in Doha, Qatar, to attend the Doha Forum, where world leaders discuss important global challenges. During a panel discussion, he talked about how countries often have different agreements and conflicts. He noted the complexity of international relations, stating, “It’s a messy world.”

He urged for “more innovative and participative diplomacy,” especially in conflicts, like the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, which affects many countries due to rising costs of oil and food.

Jaishankar believes there’s a shift towards finding solutions through diplomacy rather than continuing conflicts. He emphasized India’s active role in talking to both Russia and Ukraine, aiming to find common ground and express the concerns of many countries affected by rising costs due to the war.

He pointed out that even major European leaders have encouraged India to keep engaging with both Russia and Ukraine to foster dialogue and understanding.

Jaishankar’s visit to Qatar includes participating in the 20th IISS Manama Dialogue in Bahrain, focusing on strengthening relationships in the region.