I might be downvoted for my views since this sub has also started to become an echo chamber but this is very irresponsible statement and shows lack of understanding given that he's Minister of External Affairs.

We are in a global economy where distance really doesn't matter. Problems don't see borders. E.g.: India is fighting different problems as compared to Pakistan, Nepal or Sri Lanka. Moreover, it took around 20 years for US to walk away from Afghanistan.

India needs allies and that's how world works in 21st Century. Even the strongest countries need allies and we are only a developing nation. Countries can be neutral till they...can't. Diplomacy without power is useless as it's all just talks. Either be powerful or have a strong powerful alliance. We just couldn't do anything when Sri Lanka and China agreed for docking Chinese Spy ship while USA representatives visited Taiwan after Chinese major opposition.