External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has asserted that India will determine its own future through its strength and capabilities. Speaking at the Raisina Dialogue 2026, he said India’s destiny will be written by Indians and not by the mistakes of others. Jaishankar highlighted the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean Region, describing it as an interconnected ecosystem that is currently undergoing a phase of recovery and rebuilding. He said restoring trade routes, strengthening connectivity and building partnerships across the region are essential to this process. The minister also emphasised the role of Indian diplomacy in expanding engagement with countries in the Indian Ocean over the last decade. According to him, India’s growth will also create opportunities for other nations in the region. Jaishankar added that maritime security remains critical because a large number of Indian sailors serve on merchant ships operating across global sea routes.