S. Jaishankar's Sharp Response on Russia Ties: 'In This Day and Age'

Photo : PTI

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar recently delivered a sharp response to a question regarding India’s ties with Russia, during an interview on his visit to Australia. The question centered on whether India acknowledged Australia’s "angst" over its relationship with Russia.

Jaishankar, known for his direct approach to geopolitics, immediately countered the question. He said, "I don't think we have given cause for any angst. In this day and age, countries don't have exclusive relationships," highlighting the complex nature of international ties in today’s world.

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The minister then drew a comparison to Pakistan, emphasizing the intricacies of global relationships. "If I were to use that logic, I would say so many countries have relationships with Pakistan. Look at the angst it should cause me," he remarked, further stressing the importance of India’s independent foreign policy decisions.

Jaishankar went on to explain that India’s relationship with Russia, particularly its decision to continue importing Russian oil despite Western sanctions, is critical not only to India’s energy security but to global stability. He said, “If we had not made the moves we had, the energy markets would have taken a completely different turn and precipitated a global energy crisis, which would have caused inflation across the world.”

The minister made it clear that India’s ties with Russia play a vital role in helping to mediate the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. By maintaining a strong relationship with Russia, India has positioned itself as a potential intermediary that can facilitate dialogue between the two sides. “The fact that we have a good relationship with Russia allows us to be a country in between, which has the ability to talk to both Russia and Ukraine and try to find some intersection in those conversations. I think the world, including Australia, needs such a country that will help bring this conflict back to the conference table,” Jaishankar said, reiterating that conflicts typically end through negotiation, not on the battlefield.

The interview comes amid India’s ongoing stance of neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine war, focusing on peace rather than taking sides. While Australia has strongly supported Ukraine, supplying weapons and backing sanctions against Russia, India has chosen a different path. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has maintained that India is not neutral, but rather on the side of peace, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy in resolving international disputes.

Jaishankar also addressed criticisms of India’s decision to continue purchasing Russian oil, a move that raised eyebrows in Western capitals. He had previously explained that Europe should not expect the rest of the world to share its concerns as equally, notably asserting that "Europe’s problems are the world’s problems, but the world’s problems are not Europe’s problems." By prioritizing its own energy needs, India has ensured its energy security, particularly when Western countries were grappling with soaring energy prices following sanctions on Russia.

At the same time, India’s leadership has faced scrutiny over its stance, especially from Western countries questioning its support for Russian energy imports. However, Jaishankar has remained steadfast in defending India’s position, emphasizing that Russia has never taken actions that have negatively impacted India’s interests.

India’s approach to the Ukraine conflict has been consistent with its long-standing foreign policy principles of non-alignment and strategic autonomy. Despite international pressures, India has chosen to pursue a path of diplomatic engagement, seeking peace rather than fueling conflict. Prime Minister Modi’s visits to both Ukraine and Russia have reinforced India’s stance as a proponent of dialogue and resolution.

In conclusion, Jaishankar’s comments underscore India’s commitment to maintaining independent foreign relations, strategically balancing its energy needs and international interests, and promoting peace through dialogue in global conflicts.

Nov. 13, 2024 4:19 p.m. 794

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