The first foreign minister of India was Jawaharlal Nehru.
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Jawaharlal Nehru, one of the prominent leaders during India’s struggle for independence, served as the first foreign minister of India. Nehru’s impactful tenure as a foreign minister played a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign policy and establishing its international identity as a newly independent nation.
Nehru’s appointment as the foreign minister came after India gained independence from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947. With his deep understanding of international affairs and commitment to non-alignment, Nehru represented India on the global stage, advocating for peace, decolonization, and the rights of newly independent nations.
During his tenure, Nehru’s visionary leadership led to the establishment of the principles that guided Indian foreign policy for decades. He strongly believed in the principles of non-alignment, emphasizing India’s independence from any bloc or alliance system and its dedication to maintaining friendly relations with all nations.
Moreover, Nehru’s famous quote, “We want nothing from you except friendship and understanding,” reflects his philosophy of building diplomatic relationships based on mutual respect and cooperation. This quote perfectly encapsulates Nehru’s diplomatic approach and India’s aspirations for peaceful coexistence with the world.
Here are some interesting facts about Jawaharlal Nehru as India’s first foreign minister:
- Nehru played a leading role in the Non-Aligned Movement, which advocated for neutrality and non-involvement in the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union.
- He laid the groundwork for the ‘Panchsheel’ or the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, which became the cornerstone of India’s foreign policy.
- Nehru represented India at the United Nations, where he passionately articulated the concerns of the developing world and advocated for India’s role in global affairs.
- As India’s first Prime Minister, Nehru seamlessly integrated his responsibilities as both the head of government and the foreign minister, ensuring a coherent and unified approach to India’s international engagements.
Table:
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Nehru’s tenure as foreign minister | 1947-1964 |
| Key principles of his foreign policy | Non-alignment, peaceful coexistence, focus on decolonization |
| Role in the Non-Aligned Movement | Promoted neutrality and non-involvement in the Cold War between the US and the Soviet Union |
| Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence | Mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, peaceful coexistence |
| Representation at the United Nations | Nehru passionately advocated for India’s position and concerns at the United Nations |
In conclusion, Jawaharlal Nehru’s tenure as India’s first foreign minister was marked by his visionary leadership, commitment to non-alignment, and deep involvement in shaping India’s foreign policy. His diplomatic approach emphasized peaceful coexistence, non-interference, and friendship with all nations. Nehru’s impactful contributions continue to shape India’s foreign policy even today.
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India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, also held the Foreign Minister post throughout his 17-year premiership of the country; he remains the country’s longest-serving Foreign Minister.
First Foreign Minister of India: Jawaharlal Nehru was an Indian politician, anti-colonial nationalist, politician, diplomat, journalist and author who was a central figure in India during the middle of the 20th century.
Occasionally, the Foreign Minister is assisted by a Minister of State for External Affairs or the lower-ranked Deputy Minister of External Affairs. India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, also held the Foreign Minister post throughout his 17-year premiership of the country; he remains the country’s longest-serving Foreign Minister.
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