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S. Jaishankar

Diplomatic Career of Dr. S. Jaishankar

Here’s an overview of S. Jaishankar’s diplomatic career (1979–2018)

Introduction

S. Jaishankar, one of India’s most accomplished diplomats, has played a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign policy. From his early diplomatic career (1979–2000) to key ambassadorial roles (2001–2013), Jaishankar contributed significantly to India’s international relations. His expertise in handling India-US ties, India-China border issues, Indo-Sri Lanka negotiations, and strategic diplomacy has made him a pivotal figure in Indian foreign policy.

Early Diplomatic Career (1979–2000)

Entry into the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) – 1977

Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1977, marking the beginning of a distinguished diplomatic career. Over the next two decades, he served in various Indian missions across the world, gaining expertise in bilateral relations, strategic negotiations, and foreign policy formulation.

Key Diplomatic Postings (1979–2000)

1. Indian Missions in Moscow, Washington D.C., Colombo, and Budapest

Jaishankar served in key diplomatic missions in Russia (Moscow), the United States (Washington D.C.), Sri Lanka (Colombo), and Hungary (Budapest). These assignments helped him develop a deep understanding of global diplomacy, trade relations, and geopolitical strategies.

2. Role in the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord (1987)

One of Jaishankar’s significant contributions during this period was his involvement in negotiating the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord (1987). This agreement was aimed at resolving the Sri Lankan Civil War and addressing Tamil ethnic issues. His role in facilitating discussions between India and Sri Lanka showcased his negotiation skills.

3. Press Secretary to the President of India (1991)

Jaishankar briefly served as the Press Secretary to the President of India in 1991, managing diplomatic communications and media relations during a crucial period of India’s economic reforms.

4. Deputy Chief of Mission in Tokyo (1996–2000)

During his tenure in Tokyo (1996–2000), Jaishankar worked on strengthening India-Japan economic and security relations. His efforts helped boost trade partnerships and laid the foundation for India’s future engagement with Japan under the Act East Policy.

Key Ambassadorial Roles (2001–2013)

1. Indian Ambassador to the Czech Republic (2001–2004)

Jaishankar’s first major ambassadorial assignment was as India’s Ambassador to the Czech Republic from 2001 to 2004. He played a crucial role in strengthening India’s diplomatic and trade ties with Central Europe, paving the way for future economic collaborations.

2. Joint Secretary (Americas), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) (2004–2007)

As Joint Secretary (Americas) in the MEA, Jaishankar was instrumental in shaping India-US relations. His most notable achievement during this period was his involvement in negotiating the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Deal (2005), a landmark agreement that significantly strengthened strategic and energy ties between India and the United States.

3. Indian High Commissioner to Singapore (2007–2009)

Jaishankar served as India’s High Commissioner to Singapore from 2007 to 2009, focusing on:

  • Expanding trade and investment relations under the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).
  • Strengthening strategic and defense ties between India and Singapore.
  • Positioning Singapore as a key partner in India’s Look East Policy.

4. Indian Ambassador to China (2009–2013)

One of Jaishankar’s most challenging assignments was his tenure as India’s Ambassador to China from 2009 to 2013. He managed complex India-China border tensions, trade relations, and diplomatic engagements.

  • Key Achievement: He played a major role in handling the 2013 Depsang Valley standoff between Indian and Chinese troops, using diplomacy to prevent escalation.
  • Trade and Economic Diplomacy: Promoted stronger economic and business ties between India and China, despite political tensions.

5. Ambassador to the United States (2013–2015)

Jaishankar took charge as India’s Ambassador to the United States in 2013, right after the Devayani Khobragade diplomatic crisis. He worked on restoring India-US relations and was a key figure in:

  • Strengthening ties between PM Narendra Modi and US President Barack Obama.
  • Negotiating PM Modi’s landmark 2014 US visit, which revitalized India-US strategic and trade partnerships.

Foreign Secretary of India (2015–2018)

After his tenure in the US, Jaishankar was appointed India’s Foreign Secretary from 2015 to 2018. His leadership in strengthening India’s global diplomatic footprint, advancing the Act East Policy, and promoting India’s Indo-Pacific Strategy was widely acknowledged.

Conclusion

S. Jaishankar’s diplomatic career from 1979 to 2013 played a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign policy, strengthening strategic ties, and advancing global trade and defense partnerships. His expertise in handling India-US relations, Indo-China diplomacy, and Indo-Sri Lanka negotiations laid the foundation for his later role as India’s Foreign Secretary (2015–2018) and External Affairs Minister (2019–present).

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