The United States adopting a more isolationist stance appears to be increasing, irrespective of the outcome of the upcoming presidential election, stated S. Jaishankar, the Minister of External Affairs, on Wednesday. During an event in Canberra, while American citizens were still participating in the electoral process, Jaishankar expressed that the election results are not expected to alter what he described as a persistent trend in U.S. foreign policy. He noted that since the presidency of Barack Obama, the United States has exhibited a greater caution regarding its international obligations, highlighting a hesitance to deploy military forces and referencing the withdrawal from Afghanistan under President Joe Biden.During a panel discussion with the foreign ministers of Australia and New Zealand, he remarked that President Trump might exhibit greater articulation and expressiveness in certain contexts.
However, he emphasized the necessity of viewing the United States from a broader national perspective rather than solely through the lens of the current administration’s ideology. He suggested that a thorough analysis requires preparation for a future where the United States may not maintain the same level of dominance and generosity it once displayed in its early years. on a positive note, Jaishankar expressed confidence on Tuesday that India’s relationship with the United States is poised for growth in the future. The three foreign ministers collectively acknowledged the need for their countries to actively participate in shaping the desired global environment. Jaishankar articulated the shared interest in establishing a collaborative and consensual framework. In this context, New Zealand’s Winston Peters pointed out the increasing trend of protectionism, noting that the world they once aspired to build is undergoing significant changes, necessitating a responsive and adaptive approach.