India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar called for deeper cooperation between India and South Korea during a keynote address on Thursday [3].
The address comes as both nations seek to strengthen supply-chain resilience and counter trends of global dominance in an increasingly fragmented international order.
Speaking at the Jeju Forum for Peace and Prosperity 2026 on Jeju Island, Jaishankar outlined five steps [2] intended to address global fragmentation and the "weaponization of everything." He said that while the world is experiencing a period of instability, this shift creates opportunities for a more balanced global power structure.
"Global fragmentation is here to stay, but it opens up greater democratization and less dominance by a few nations," Jaishankar said [1].
The minister emphasized the need for strategic partnerships to ensure economic stability. He said that India and South Korea must deepen cooperation in shipbuilding, health, infrastructure, and defence [3]. These sectors are viewed as critical for maintaining regional security and economic growth.
Jaishankar's remarks were part of a two-day visit [1] to the Republic of Korea. During the forum, he said the necessity of navigating a fragmented world involves promoting bilateral ties and reducing reliance on a small number of dominant global actors.
By focusing on diversified supply chains, Jaishankar said the two nations can better protect their interests against external economic pressures. The proposed steps aim to move away from a centralized global system toward one characterized by multiple centers of influence.
“India and South Korea must deepen cooperation in shipbuilding, health, infrastructure, and defence.”
This diplomatic push signals India's strategy to diversify its strategic partnerships in Asia to reduce vulnerability to any single dominant power. By aligning with South Korea on high-tech infrastructure and defense, India is positioning itself as a key pillar of a multipolar global economy.
