India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has underscored that New Delhi’s foreign policy is driven by strategic interests, not personalities, as he addressed questions on whether he trusts US President Donald Trump. During his diplomatic engagements in Brussels, Jaishankar emphasized that India aims to strengthen its global relationships, particularly with the United States, in ways that advance the nation’s long-term objectives, regardless of who holds power in Washington.
Responding to a query from Euractiv about Trump, Jaishankar clarified that India’s approach is not shaped by personal trust or individual leaders. “I take the world as I find it. Our aim is to advance every relationship that serves our interests, and the US relationship is of immense importance to us. It’s not about personality X or president Y,” he said. His remarks come at a time when questions are being raised globally about Trump’s unpredictable foreign policy style and its implications for allies and partners.
Clarification on US Mediation Claims
In a separate interview with Dutch broadcaster NOS, Jaishankar also addressed the earlier claims made by President Trump regarding mediation in the India-Pakistan conflict. He categorically denied any third-party involvement in the ceasefire between the two countries. According to Jaishankar, the ceasefire was the outcome of direct negotiations between India and Pakistan, and Washington was informed that any understanding on this matter must happen bilaterally.
“The ceasefire was negotiated directly between India and Pakistan. We told everyone, including the US, that if Pakistan wants an understanding, they have to talk to us directly,” he asserted. This response reaffirms India’s consistent stance on bilateral dialogue, particularly on sensitive regional issues like Kashmir.
Progress on Trade and Strategic Cooperation
Jaishankar also highlighted the growing momentum in India-US trade ties. In an interview with French publication Le Figaro, he revealed that both countries had begun trade negotiations in February, well before Trump’s reciprocal tariff policy was officially announced in April. With the 90-day pause on those tariffs ending July 9, India remains hopeful that a trade agreement will be reached in time.
Reflecting on the broader trajectory of India-US relations, Jaishankar noted that ties have steadily deepened over the past 25 years across multiple domains. From economic cooperation and technological exchange to education, science, and defense, he said the partnership has strengthened under five successive US presidents. This consistent growth, he added, reflects a maturing relationship based on shared interests rather than fluctuating political equations.
