In a recent interview with ANI, India’s Foreign Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, delved into various crucial diplomatic matters. He discussed India’s approach to global relationships, addressing criticism over his recent visit to Russia, and shedding light on the differences in India’s historical approaches to China. Dr. Jaishankar’s interview covered a spectrum of issues that have garnered attention on the international stage.
On the topic of India’s relationship with China, Jaishankar emphasized the need for engagement based on mutual respect, sensitivity, and interest. He stressed the importance of grounding India’s approach in realism rather than romanticizing past approaches, alluding to the contrast between India’s first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s views on China. The Foreign Minister argued for prioritizing India’s interests in engagements with China, as per the visions of leaders like Sardar Patel and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Addressing foreign media’s criticisms of India, particularly regarding his recent visit to Moscow, Jaishankar pointed out that such media outlets often have their own interests and agendas. He cautioned against taking their reporting at face value, asserting that India’s foreign relations are guided by its interests and its commitment to expanding diplomatic relationships. His visit to Moscow had generated attention due to Western media scrutiny of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s policies and the unconventional nature of a foreign minister’s meeting with him instead of a head of state.
In the realm of India-Pakistan relations, Dr. Jaishankar clarified India’s stance, indicating that India has ceased engagement with Pakistan’s core policy of employing cross-border terrorism as a means to bring India to the negotiating table. While recognizing the significance of neighborly relations, India has insisted that discussions should not take place under terms dictated by Pakistan, where terrorism is deemed a legitimate tactic to achieve objectives.
“It’s not a case that we won’t deal with a neighbour. After all, at the end of the day, a neighbour is a neighbour, but it is that we will not deal on the basis of terms that they set where the practice of terrorism is deemed as legitimate and effective in order to bring you to the table,” the EAM added.
