Envoys call for ‘rules-based global order’ in era of ‘paradox and polarisation’

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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

The Envoys of the European Union (EU), Australia, and India, who were panelists at The Hindu Huddle 2026, emphasised on 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 major drivers of future cooperation.

The EU Ambassador to India, Harve Delphin, in an interaction with The Hindu’s Suhasini Haidar over domination of middle powers and major powers, said the EU wants to work together with those considered agents of change for cooperation, and rejected the terminology ‘middle powers’ as it “boxes” people or countries in different categories. Instead of categorisation, he sought the focus to be on countries with intent, capability and willingness to cooperate.

“We are so much in an era of paradox and polarisation which would assumingly necessitate more cooperation than ever.” Mr. Delphin said. He said the EU-India strategic convergence and trust are currently at historic highs and India can play a constructive role in conflict resolution due to its unique relationships with multiple actors.

Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green said rules-based order remained largely intact and is governing trade, shipping, telecommunications and international business, and stressed on the need to strengthen the order.

“Rather than worry about the world where rules don’t exist, we need to protect the rules that exist and try to build them on. The global rule-making order might have slowed down but it has not stopped,” Mr. Green said.

He said that Australia and India increasingly share strategic trust and regional interests. Despite differe