Amid criticism from the United States and its European allies over purchase of discounted crude oil from Russia and not condemning Moscow’s actions in Ukraine, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said the West “must live with India’s stance” on Ukraine just as India lived with differences with them on issues related to Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The minister pointed out the G20 summit in Bali has clearly shown the correctness of PM Modi’s judgment on India’s stand in Ukraine war.
Speaking at an event by Times Now, the foreign minister mentioned India has maintained a “credible” position and advocated to bring an end to Russia-Ukraine conflict and it is capable of working with others.
Jaishankar has times and over reiterated that India in favour of peace. Even in the 77th UN Assembly, India strongly called for the need to end the war through diplomacy and reiterated its stand on the conflict. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said India is one the side of peace and will remain firmly there.
“We are often asked whose side we are on. And our answer, each time, is straight and honest. India is on the side of peace and will remain firmly there,” Jaishankar said, according to news agency ANI.
“We are on the side that respects the UN Charter and its founding principles,” he added, reiterating India’s stand on the Russia-Ukraine war.
Jaishankar called for return to diplomacy and said that he is on the side that calls for dialogue. the Ukraine war remained the top agenda as every leader during the week reiterated the impact of the conflict.
‘That’s Not Really Me’: Jaishankar on His Assertive Stance on India’s Foreign Policy
Jaishankar had earlier said India’s foreign policies are independent and they do not have to be dictated. During an his first bilateral visit to Egypt, Jaishankar interacted with the Indian community in Cairo.
During the interaction, Jaishankar was asked about his assertive stance in upholding India’s foreign policy positions. “I don’t think I am being assertive,” he replied. “What often happens, to be very honest with you, is you end up in situations where others try to pressurise you or push you, in a sense, leaving you with no choice but to express your view with a certain degree of forcefulness.
“I still believe that at the end of the day it’s important to explain yourself…at times there is a lack of fairness in which your position is portrayed. I don’t think we should let that pass. We are not doing justice to ourselves if we do that,” the minister said.
Also Read: EAM Jaishankar Meets Ukrainian Counterpart, Discusses Recent Regional Developments, Ways to End Russia-Ukraine Conflict
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