External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that the United States lacks 'understanding or empathy' for India's concerns over cross-border terrorism, which he said has affected bilateral ties. Speaking at the Asia Society in New York after the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week, Jaishankar emphasized that terrorism from a neighboring country remains a key issue for India, which has faced such attacks over several decades. He noted that this lack of appreciation creates a problem in the relationship, though he did not specify which country he was referring to.

Jaishankar also discussed the challenges in India-US trade negotiations, citing fundamental differences between the two economies, including India’s large base of small producers, farmers, and factories. He said the trade agreement had reached 'more or less an understanding,' but changes in the US tariff framework, particularly the 301 process, had created new challenges. He acknowledged that the US's approach to tariffs has 'created bumps' in the relationship, but did not provide a timeline for resolving these issues.

In addition to trade, Jaishankar highlighted the growing influence of public opinion on diplomacy, especially in democratic societies, where social media has added a new dimension to international relations. He noted that the 'economics of mobility' and 'politics of mobility' are at odds, affecting public perception. However, he expressed hope for an upward trajectory in the relationship, provided that some key issues are addressed.

On India-China relations, Jaishankar said ties had improved compared to 2025 and 2024, with the border standoff easing. He stated that India had consistently conveyed to Beijing that a prolonged standoff would not benefit either side, but did not specify when the Chinese side agreed to this view. He emphasized that the state of the border determines the broader state of the relationship, suggesting that as the border returns to normalcy, so too would the relationship.

Jaishankar also warned of the economic impact of the Ukraine and Iran-Gulf conflicts on the Global South, particularly through energy and food security. He noted that these conflicts have created a 'double crisis' by tightening energy markets and exacerbating food shortages, with the potential for a major food crisis in the coming months. He also mentioned the threat of Super El Niño, which could worsen the situation.

Finally, Jaishankar observed that the world is moving 'quite visibly' towards greater multipolarity, with countries seeking stability rather than prolonged volatility. He suggested that stable, consistent, and reliable partners would become more important in a competitive global order.