Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said- ‘We have to move forward from the principle of shared values’

Updated: 07-03-2026, 04.52 PM

In Raisina Dialogue 2026, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri raised questions on the principle of shared values and rules based system. He said that the time has come to move forward from the principle of shared values. At the same time, on the rule based system, he said that if the rules do not change according to the situation then they become useless. Vikram Misri said that we have to move forward from the principle of shared values. This is necessary, but not sufficient to build long-lasting relationships. In the times to come, we can compete in one domain and cooperate in another.

The Foreign Secretary said, “India has no problem with the rules-based system, but did we have a hand in making those rules? If the rules do not change and adapt to the changing circumstances, then there is a danger of them becoming useless.”

changing geopolitics

Former Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper also became part of this dialogue. During this, he said, “There is increasing concern about the geopolitics of the two big powers, which are adopting competitive policies without any hesitation. Can the middle powers come forward in dealing with these issues? In recent times, America has raised challenges to the sovereignty of Canada. The world is moving from value-based diplomacy to realpolitik and interest-driven policy, where democracy and ideals are increasingly becoming security. And going back and forth on economic priorities.”

What will be the structure of future cooperation?

Analyst Comfort Iro said we need to think seriously about what a new New Deal moment should look like and how future cooperation will be structured. India and Canada have already given valuable signals. The rule makers have now become the rule breakers, giving other countries the opportunity to pursue their sovereign choices. Yet, when they cannot protect those choices, the value and legitimacy of the rules surrounding them are no longer assured. It is very important to have an agency.