Envoys call for ‘rules-based global order’ in time of ‘paradox and polarization’

Hervé Delphin, EU Ambassador to India; Nirupama Rao, former Foreign Secretary and former Indian Ambassador to the US; and Philip Green, Australian High Commissioner to India in conversation with Suhasini Haidar, Diplomatic Affairs Editor of The Hindu, at The Hindu Huddle in Bengaluru on June 5, 2026. | Photo credit: K. Murali Kumar

Envoys from the European Union (EU), Australia and India, who were members of The Hindu Huddle 2026 panel, emphasized the need for a rules-based international order and economic integration. In this context, the growing India-EU and India-Australia partnerships were highlighted as a major driver for future cooperation.

In an interaction with The Hindu’s Suhasini Haidar on the supremacy of middle powers and major powers, EU Ambassador to India Harve Delphin said that the EU wants to work with those who are seen as agents of change for cooperation and rejected the terminology of “middle powers” as it “boxes” people or countries into different categories. Instead of categorizing, he tried to focus on countries with the intention, ability and willingness to cooperate.

“We are in a time of paradox and polarization that would probably require more cooperation than ever.” said Mr. Delphin. He said that strategic convergence and trust between the EU and India are currently at historic highs and India can play a constructive role in conflict resolution due to its unique relationships with many actors.

Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green said the rules-based order remained largely intact and governed trade, shipping, telecommunications and international trade, stressing the need to strengthen the order.

“Rather than worrying about a world where the rules don’t exist, we need to protect the rules that do exist and try to build on them. The global rule-making order may have slowed, but it hasn’t stopped,” Mr Green said.

He said Australia and India increasingly share strategic trust and regional interests. Despite differences on issues such as Ukraine, the two countries work closely together in the Indo-Pacific region. India’s exports to Australia have grown by 200% in five years, compared to India’s global exports of 40%.

Speaking about India’s diplomacy and role in international politics, former Indian foreign minister and diplomat Nirupama Rao said the choice was to maintain influence and dialogue. With increasing global instability, India, Japan and Australia have greater responsibilities within the Indo-Pacific. “India should continue to act as a key power rather than joining a rigid bloc,” Ms Rao said. India’s current approach should be seen as inconsistent with its long-standing West Asia policy. India’s historical sympathy and support for the Palestinian cause remains important, she added.

Hindu Huddle is presented by Sami-Sabinsa Group as a presenting partner. The event is co-sponsored by the Government of Telangana and is being held in association with Khaja Bandanawaz University.

The event is further supported by Bank of Baroda, Larsen & Toubro, Apollo Hospitals, IIM Sirmaur, ICFAI Group, TAFE, Wizzmon, Uttarakhand Government, Associate Partners; Casagrand, real estate partner; Toyota, the luxury car partner; Amity University Bengaluru, Partner University; Harrow International School Bengaluru, Education Partner; Meghalaya Tourism, State Partner; and NDTV 24×7, TV Partner.

Published – 05 Jun 2026 17:21 IST