External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has said the world is entering an “age of flux” marked by geopolitical tensions, conflicts, tariff volatility and economic uncertainty, but expressed confidence that India is well positioned to navigate the challenges ahead.
Speaking at the 5th Kautilya Economic Conclave in New Delhi, Jaishankar described the current global environment as increasingly unpredictable and characterised by what he called “choppy waters.” However, he stressed that India has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to adapt and respond effectively to major global disruptions.
“We know that this is going to be an age of flux,” Jaishankar said during an interactive session at the conclave. He noted that the world is witnessing multiple conflicts, strategic rivalries and growing economic pressures that are reshaping international relations and trade patterns. According to him, uncertainty has become a defining feature of the global landscape.
The minister pointed to two major ongoing conflicts, along with several geopolitical frictions across regions, as evidence of increasing instability. He also highlighted the influence of non-market factors, including tariffs and strategic restrictions, which are creating volatility in global commerce and supply chains.
“Yes, these are choppy waters,” Jaishankar remarked, acknowledging that governments, businesses and societies worldwide will have to deal with an environment that is both turbulent and fast-changing.
Despite these challenges, Jaishankar said he remained optimistic about India’s prospects. He argued that the country’s resilience, economic strength and ability to adapt have enabled it to overcome difficult situations in the past, including global financial disruptions, supply-chain shocks and geopolitical crises.
The three-day conclave was held under the theme “Resilience in an Age of Flux”, bringing together policymakers, economists and strategic thinkers to discuss the future of the global economy. Jaishankar shared the stage with former Singapore foreign minister George Yeo during the closing session.
His remarks reflect India’s broader foreign-policy approach of maintaining strategic flexibility while building economic resilience in an increasingly uncertain world. As geopolitical competition intensifies and global trade faces new pressures, New Delhi believes it can convert challenges into opportunities and emerge stronger in the years ahead.