S. Jaishankar emphasized that India does not anticipate Europe to share an identical perspective on China as New Delhi, and likewise, he urged Europe to recognize that India’s stance on Russia may differ from the European viewpoint. The External Affairs Minister hinted at India’s willingness to mediate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict if approached but clarified that India wouldn’t take unilateral initiatives.
During an interview with the German economic daily Handelsblatt, he mentioned that post the Ukraine conflict, India’s Middle East energy suppliers prioritized supplying petroleum products to higher-paying Europe, leaving India with no choice but to procure Russian crude oil. Mr Jaishankar asserted that just as India does not expect Europe to have a view of China that is identical to New Delhi’s, Europe should understand that India cannot have a view of Russia that is identical to the European one.
Also Read : Beat the Heat: Cooling Fruits to Enjoy During Indian Summers
S. Jaishankar highlighted the enduring and positive relationship between India and Russia, emphasizing that Moscow has never compromised New Delhi’s interests. He compared this to the more challenging political and military dynamics India has faced with China. Despite the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar defended India’s ongoing military collaboration with Russia, explaining that Western countries historically favored supplying Pakistan over India.
Jaishankar expressed India’s commitment to ending the conflict, stating that India is open to playing a mediating role if approached, as demonstrated by its previous assistance in specific issues like negotiating the Black Sea corridor and supporting inspections of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant.
Jaishankar argued that had no one bought Russian crude oil
Addressing criticism regarding India’s procurement of Russian crude oil, Jaishankar justified the decision by highlighting the practicality of stabilizing the energy market. He argued that had no one bought Russian crude oil, global inflation would have soared, posing significant challenges for lower-income countries. He questioned Europe’s commitment to principles, noting that it did not completely sever economic ties with Russia and made exceptions, managing politics based on the consequences for their people.
Jaishankar also asserted that India’s relationship with Russia is based on its historical experiences, emphasizing the stability and friendship that have characterized the ties. Responding to concerns about the Indo-Russian engagement affecting India-Europe relations, he underscored that each country conducts relationships based on its unique experiences and historical context.
Regarding arms cooperation with Russia, Jaishankar acknowledged Russia’s historical significance as India’s primary arms supplier, but he noted a diversification in recent years with the inclusion of the US, France, and Israel as major arms suppliers. He emphasized that the inventory has become more diverse, reflecting a shift in India’s arms procurement strategy.
Also Read : Kiara Advani thrilled to join Ranveer Singh in Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3