Jaishankar criticizes Trump's foreign policy and denies US claims of mediation in disputes
In a press gathering in New Delhi, India's External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, addressed the ongoing trade tensions with the United States and reiterated India's stance on relations with Pakistan.
Jaishankar clarified that while trade is the major issue between India and the US, negotiations are still ongoing despite the cancellation of a planned US delegation visit in August. He dismissed criticism from Washington that India is "profiteering" by refining and re-exporting Russian oil, stating it as humorous for people working in a pro-business American administration to accuse others of doing business.
The minister also emphasized that India's strategic autonomy priorities remain a focus in his remarks. He reiterated that if the US has a problem buying oil or refined products from India, they should not buy it. Furthermore, Jaishankar stressed that India's farmers and small producers are non-negotiable priorities in trade discussions.
In the context of the India-Pakistan conflict, Jaishankar rejected the US assertion that it played a mediating role, claiming that India does not accept mediation in its relations with Pakistan, a stance that has been held since the 1970s. He acknowledged that phone calls were made by the US and other countries during the skirmish, but emphasized that international outreach was routine but not determinative.
Jaishankar also took aim at Washington's historical ties with Islamabad, saying that they have a history with each other and have a history of overlooking that history. The deadline for Trump's additional tariffs on Indian goods is approaching, with tariffs potentially increasing to as much as 50%, and further penalties linked to India's continued imports of Russian oil.
As the trade tensions continue, Jaishankar pushed back against speculation that India's engagement with China is linked to friction with the US. He emphasized that India's strategic autonomy priorities remain a focus in his remarks. The minister's statements underscore India's commitment to maintaining its own independence in international relations.
