Interview with H.E. Ms. Manika Jain, Ambassador of India to Romania & Moldova

by Mr. Vasile Simileanu, Geopolitica Magazine

Vasile Simileanu: Your Excellency, The phrase “Incredible India” has become synonymous with the country’s rich heritage, diversity, and unique cultural experiences. During my visit to India, I encountered a civilization far beyond what I had read or imagined—one that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern aspirations. Could you elaborate on what truly makes India “Incredible”?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain – India is a land of immense diversity, rich history, and vibrant traditions. The phrase “Incredible India” encapsulates this uniqueness—its deep-rooted spirituality, architectural marvels, breath-taking landscapes, and dynamic modernity. It is a country where the ancient coexists with the contemporary. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, from the bustling markets of Delhi to the peaceful monasteries of Ladakh, India offers an unparalleled experience. But what truly makes India incredible is its people—their warmth, resilience, and ability to embrace diversity. With over 1.4 billion people, speaking hundreds of languages and practicing multiple religions, India exemplifies unity in diversity. Every region, every community adds a different hue to the grand mosaic of Indian civilization.

Vasile Simileanu: Madam Ambassador, having had the opportunity to experience India firsthand, I realized that its spiritual and religious landscape is vast and deeply influential. Could you provide insights into India’s role in shaping religious and spiritual traditions within the Indian subcontinent, Asia, and the Indian Ocean region?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain : India is not just a country; it is a civilization that has given birth to major world religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It has also been home to Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Zoroastrianism, and many other faiths for centuries. Spirituality is deeply embedded in India’s ethos, with sacred sites, pilgrimage routes, and age-old traditions shaping the daily lives of millions. Indian philosophy and teachings, from the Bhagavad Gita to the Upanishads, have influenced thought leaders worldwide. The concepts of yoga and meditation, which originated in India, have found universal appeal, offering a holistic approach to well-being. India’s spiritual landscape is an embodiment of its openness and inclusivity, making it a beacon of religious harmony in the world.

Vasile Simileanu: Excellency, India is globally recognized for its leadership in IT, space technology, and traditional medicine, particularly Ayurveda. In addition to these, what are some other key areas where India has made significant advancements, and how do they contribute to the country’s global standing?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain : India has emerged as a global leader in science and technology. It has made remarkable strides in space exploration, with missions such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, and has even launched a successful moon landing on the South Pole of the Moon through Chandrayaan-3. India’s IT industry powers global digital transformation, contributing to innovations in AI, cybersecurity, Fintech and software development. Additionally, India has preserved and advanced traditional medicine through Ayurveda, which is gaining international recognition for its holistic healing approach. India is also a pharmaceutical powerhouse, often called the “pharmacy of the world,” providing affordable medicines to millions globally. The country’s scientific advancements, coupled with its deep-rooted wisdom, position it as a major player in shaping the future of global healthcare, technology, and innovation. Moreover, India’s soft power has significantly expanded through its thriving entertainment industry and robust digital infrastructure. Bollywood, along with regional film industries, has captivated global audiences, fostering cultural connections across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. Indian films, music, and OTT platforms like Netflix India and Amazon Prime Video bring Indian storytelling to the world, reinforcing India’s cultural influence. Simultaneously, India’s advancements in digital infrastructure, including affordable data, mobile penetration, and platforms like UPI and Aadhaar, have set global benchmarks. The success of Indian IT giants and startups in fintech, edtech, and digital governance enhances India’s image as a technological leader, further strengthening its global soft power.

Vasile Simileanu: Madam Ambassador, the essence of India lies not only in its cultural and historical richness but also in the spirit of its people. For those who are less familiar with Indian society, how would you describe the values, resilience, and unique characteristics that define the Indian people?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain : The Indian spirit is defined by resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of community. Indian society thrives on inclusivity, with traditions of hospitality and respect deeply ingrained in its culture. The concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family” and “Atithi Devo Vhava—Guest is God” guides India’s interactions at home and abroad. Indians have an unbreakable optimism and a strong work ethic. Whether in academia, arts, business, or innovation, Indian people embrace challenges and turn them into opportunities. Also when outside India, Indians are disciplined and hardworking and are able to adapt to the country of residence. This dynamism is what has propelled India to be one of the fastest-growing economies and a hub of creativity and entrepreneurship.

Vasile Simileanu: Your Excellency, India has consistently championed the concept of a multipolar world, advocating for a more balanced and inclusive global order. What are the core principles of India’s foreign policy that guide its efforts in maintaining stability and equitable power distribution on the global stage?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain : India has long advocated for a multipolar world, where power is distributed more equitably among nations. India’s foreign policy is guided by several key pillars but the main pillar is strategic autonomy as India pursues an independent foreign policy based on its national interests. Policy of development partnership is also important by which India actively engage with global development initiatives particularly in Africa, Latin America and South Asia. ITEC training courses conducted by the Ministry of External Affairs are very popular in many countries. India has been advocating for Global Governance Reform and for a more representative United Nations and institutions like the IMF and World Bank. India’s balanced approach ensures its global engagements are constructive and beneficial for all stakeholders. It believes in peaceful coexistence of all. By adopting neighborhood first policy India has tried to strengthen relations with immediate neighbors for regional stability. On various multilateral forum like G-20, BRICS and SCO India has acted as balancing power.

Vasile Simileanu: Madam Ambassador, the world is witnessing significant geopolitical and geostrategic shifts, which have implications for all major economies, including India. What are the key challenges that India faces in this evolving global landscape, and how is it preparing to navigate them?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain : India, like other global powers, faces several geopolitical and geostrategic challenges. I consider regional security, ensuring peace and stability in South Asia and in the Indo-Pacific region as major challenge. We all collectively need to fight with cross boarder terrorism to ensure peace in the region. Another area is energy security by securing diversified energy sources amidst global supply chain disruptions. Climate Change has become a global challenge, as we need to balance rapid industrialization with sustainable growth. In current situation, economic resilience is also a major challenge as India need to strengthen global trade partnerships while safeguarding domestic industries. However, I can assert that India continues to proactively engage with global partners to address these challenges through diplomacy, innovation, collaboration and sustainable policies.

Vasile Simileanu: Your Excellency, India has a long history as a major economic player, transitioning from a colonial trading hub to one of the fastest-growing global economies. In the context of Romania and the Republic of Moldova, which economic sectors offer the most promising opportunities for Indian investment and collaboration?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain : Romania and Moldova present promising opportunities for Indian businesses in sectors such as IT & Digital Economy as Romania’s growing tech ecosystem aligns with India’s IT expertise. Another area is Energy & Renewables as joint ventures in green energy, including solar and wind power will be equally beneficial for us. India’s affordable medicines can contribute to healthcare development. I also see Agriculture & Food Processing an important area of Collaboration in advanced farming techniques and agri-tech solutions. Automobile & Engineering sector in these countries provide excellent opportunities for Indian auto and manufacturing industries to expand in the region. With Romania being a gateway to the EU and Moldova offering strategic access to Eastern European markets, Indian companies can benefit from deeper economic engagement.

Vasile Simileanu: Madam Ambassador, India shares warm diplomatic and economic ties with both Romania and Moldova. How do you envision the future of these bilateral relations, and what steps can be taken to further enhance cooperation?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain : India and Romania share warm diplomatic ties, strengthened by growing trade and investment and strong cultural ties. With Romania’s strategic location within the EU and India’s dynamic economy, there is potential for enhanced cooperation in trade, defense, technology, and academia. India and Moldova also have a history of friendly relations. Moldova’s agricultural sector, wine industry, and digital economy offer areas where Indian expertise and investment can contribute significantly. Recently Romania has emerged as an important destination for Indian film shooting. I expect more Indian tourist to visit Romania as it is now part of Schengen countries. Political engagement has also increased as last year Foreign Minister of Romania visited India to participate in the Raisina Dialogue and this year Foreign Minister of Moldova paid a visit to India. I must say that the future of India-Romania and India-Moldova relations looks promising, with increased exchanges both economic and cultural.

Vasile Simileanu: Your Excellency, as an integral member of the European Union, Romania holds strategic importance in strengthening India-EU relations. In what ways can the India-Romania partnership contribute to deeper economic, political, and cultural engagements between India and the European Union?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain : Romania, as an EU member, can play a key role in strengthening India-EU relations. Major area of collaboration is Trade & Economic Partnerships by expanding bilateral trade under the India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations. Other areas include strategic cooperation and joint initiatives in defense, cybersecurity, and infrastructure development, working together on green energy solutions and climate policies and encouraging student exchange programs and research collaborations. Overall, Romania’s role in fostering stronger bilateral times will be crucial in enhancing India-EU relations.

Vasile Simileanu: Madam Ambassador, Finally, as India’s representative to Romania and Moldova, what message would you like to convey to businesses, policymakers, and the general public about the potential for stronger economic and diplomatic ties between our nations?

H.E. Ms. Manika Jain : Through your popular magazine I would like to convey that India is a land of immense opportunities, and our relations with Romania and Moldova are poised for a new era of growth. To businesses, I say: explore India’s vibrant market and dynamic industries. To policymakers, let us work together to build a framework that fosters trade, innovation, and sustainability and to the citizens of Romania and Moldova, I invite you to experience India—not just as a nation but as a partner in progress. Together, we can shape a future of shared prosperity, innovation, and cultural exchange.