Shyam Saran
Shyam Saran
Full Name and Common Aliases
Shyam Saran is a renowned Indian diplomat, civil servant, and author who has served in various capacities, including as the Foreign Secretary of India.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on December 19, 1946, there is no record of his passing. His extensive career spans over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on India's foreign policy landscape.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Indian | Diplomat, Civil Servant, Author
Saran has had a distinguished career in the Indian Foreign Service, where he served as the country's Foreign Secretary from 2006 to 2007. He is also known for his roles as the Director-General of the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs and as a member of the National Security Advisory Board.
Early Life and Background
Saran was born in a family that valued education and public service. His early life was marked by a strong interest in international relations, which eventually led him to pursue a career in diplomacy. He earned his Bachelor's degree from St. Stephen's College in Delhi and went on to complete his Master's in Economics from the University of Delhi.
Major Accomplishments
Saran has been instrumental in shaping India's foreign policy during his tenure as Foreign Secretary. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
Advocating for a more active role in international affairs: Saran was a key proponent of India taking on greater responsibility in regional and global issues, including the Indo-US nuclear deal.
Promoting economic diplomacy: He played a crucial role in promoting India's economic interests abroad, fostering strategic partnerships with countries like Japan and South Korea.
Notable Works or Actions
Saran has written extensively on international relations, security, and politics. Some of his notable works include:
"India: The Strategic Imperative"_ (2014): In this book, Saran examines India's foreign policy challenges and opportunities in the context of global shifts.
"How India Sees the World: Kautilya to the 21st Century"_ (2007): This collection of essays provides insights into India's historical and contemporary perspectives on international relations.
Impact and Legacy
Saran's impact on Indian foreign policy is multifaceted. He has helped shape a more proactive approach to global affairs, emphasizing economic diplomacy and strategic partnerships. His writings continue to influence policymakers and scholars, offering valuable insights into the complexities of international relations.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Shyam Saran's extensive experience, astute analysis, and commitment to public service have made him a respected voice in Indian foreign policy circles. His quotes and writings are widely sought after for their insight and depth, providing valuable perspectives on global issues.
By understanding Shyam Saran's life, work, and legacy, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of international relations and the individuals who shape them.
Quotes by Shyam Saran
The challenge for our diplomacy lies in convincing our neighbors that India is an opportunity and not a threat. Far from being besieged by India, they have a vast, productive hinterland that would give their economies far greater opportunities for growth than if they were to rely on their domestic markets alone.
He (the Pakistani envoy) added that any assistance from India in the form of such materials would be deeply appreciated,
If there is any requirement, they will certainly come back to us. What I can tell you is that there is a very good atmosphere of mutual help at the L.O.C. itself and very good understanding.
In seeking clarity on such clandestine activities, the international community must focus not merely on recipient states but on supplier states as well; otherwise our global non-proliferation effort would be undermined by charges of motivated selectivity and discrimination,
In considering its approach towards the resumption of full civil nuclear energy cooperation with India, the international community has to ask itself whether India is a partner or a target for the global non-proliferation regime,
India is against proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. We have said Iran, just as any other country, should live to its commitments and obligations (on nuclear activities),
India is a partner in global non-proliferation efforts rather than a target of these efforts,