In a recent development, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has garnered praise from his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, for boldly defending India’s decision to continue procuring Russian oil amid the Ukraine war fallout. Lavrov commended Jaishankar for advising the West to “mind their own business” in a video shared by the Russian news agency Sputnik.
During the World Youth Forum in Sochi, Lavrov highlighted Jaishankar’s firm response to inquiries about India’s increased oil purchases from Russia. Lavrov emphasized the importance of national dignity, recounting Jaishankar’s statement at the UN, where he reminded the West of its ongoing reliance on Russian oil.
Amidst the global sanctions imposed on Moscow post the Ukraine conflict outbreak, India, unlike most Western nations, stood its ground. Dr Jaishankar eloquently conveyed New Delhi’s position, underscoring that the Modi government is prioritizing the welfare of its citizens and seeking the best energy deal for them.
Addressing Europe’s “double standards,” Jaishankar emphasized the need for a shift in mindset. He pointed out that while Europe often views its problems as global issues, it tends to downplay or disregard non-European concerns. This critique reinforces India’s commitment to an independent foreign policy.
🇮🇳🇷🇺 Russian FM recalls words of 'amigo' Jaishankar, who advised Europeans to look at themselves before lecturing others
— Sputnik India (@Sputnik_India) March 4, 2024
🗯 "My friend, Foreign Minister Subramanyam Jaishankar, was once at the UN, giving a speech. He was asked why they started buying so much oil from Russia. He… pic.twitter.com/nD4C0YHMDj
At a recent security conference in Munich, Jaishankar responded confidently to queries regarding India’s continued procurement of Russian oil. With US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock by his side, Jaishankar dismissed concerns, asserting India’s ability to explore multiple options and emphasizing that it should be admired, not criticized.
Furthermore, Jaishankar reiterated India’s clear and public stance on the Ukraine war, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy over conflict. He defended the nation’s commitment to an era of peace and underscored the need for constructive engagement in resolving international disputes.
India’s steadfast stance has not gone unnoticed by Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin, earlier in January, lauded India’s independent foreign policy, expressing confidence in New Delhi’s unwavering support. Putin highlighted India’s right to pursue an independent path, given its substantial population, and commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for realizing this right.
As India continues to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, its principled stand on Russian oil procurement and commitment to a diplomatic resolution in the Ukraine crisis have earned accolades globally, reinforcing the nation’s reputation as a key player in international affairs.
Also read: https://newseense.com/nikki-haleys-symbolic-win-in-dc-gop-primary-precedes-super-tuesday-showdown/
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