In an insightful address at the Global Economic Cooperation 2026 summit, India’s Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar, shed light on a significant shift in how nations will approach decision-making in the near future. According to Jaishankar, the world is moving into a particularly volatile and uncertain phase — one that could be the most turbulent in living memory. In this new landscape, he foresees economics taking a backseat to politics and security concerns when countries make their strategic choices.

Jaishankar highlighted that we are witnessing an era where production capabilities, financial systems, market leverage, and export controls are being weaponized. Global trade and cooperation are no longer governed solely by economic factors; instead, political and security calculations are becoming the driving forces behind national policies. This shift reflects a broader transition in the global order, where traditional economic considerations are increasingly entangled with geopolitical strategy.

Technology, Jaishankar emphasized, will be an even more transformative factor going forward. It is poised to reshape industries and national capabilities at an unprecedented pace, further complicating the interplay between economics, politics, and security. He also noted two emerging traits of this evolving global environment: a new mindset encouraging greater risk-taking and growing contentions around migration and mobility.

Reflecting on these themes, Jaishankar pointed to India’s approach in navigating these choppy waters by engaging global partners more intensively. He cited recent trade agreements and collaborations as examples of India looking beyond pure economic benefits to also bolster strategic partnerships and ensure economic security. This dual focus on economic growth and geopolitical stability is crucial in a world where countries are recalibrating their alliances based on trust and shared security interests as much as market access.

This evolving scenario poses both challenges and opportunities for investors and businesses worldwide. The intertwining of politics and security with economics means that market performances can become more volatile, influenced by geopolitical tensions and policy shifts. Investors will need to pay close attention to sector-specific developments and the broader geopolitical context to navigate this new era effectively.

For India, Jaishankar’s message signals a commitment to strategic autonomy while simultaneously deepening engagement with countries like the United States, Europe, and regional neighbors. Trade deals are no longer just about tariffs and market entry; they are increasingly about partnership frameworks that include defense cooperation, energy security, and technology transfer.

In conclusion, S. Jaishankar’s remarks illuminate a critical pivot in global governance and economic cooperation. Nations will weigh political and security imperatives more heavily, with economic decisions being influenced by the need to protect national interests in an uncertain and rapidly changing world. This reordering calls for vigilance, strategic agility, and stronger international partnerships, all while harnessing technological innovation to secure a prosperous and stable future.