In a recent interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar defended his country’s partnership with Russia, emphasizing the need for a mutual understanding of priorities and concerns in international relations.
Jaishankar acknowledged that the perspectives of India and Germany on Russia’s actions in the Ukraine conflict differ, citing the varying concerns and priorities of the two nations. “For you in Europe, other issues and concerns are important than for me in Asia” he said, highlighting the distinct regional contexts and challenges that shape each country’s worldview.
The Indian foreign minister also rejected the notion that his country’s continued engagement with Russia is a result of a lack of concern for international law and the Ukraine conflict. “Whenever you bring in a rule or norm, it’s again connected to the situation that has your priority” he explained, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of the complex issues at play. “You speak of rules and think of Ukraine. I speak of rules and think of my own borders, of Pakistan, which has violated my borders and of China, which has done the same.”
Jaishankar’s comments come as India maintains its diplomatic and economic ties with Russia, despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The country has not joined international sanctions against Russia and continues to engage in trade with the nation, including the purchase of oil. In defending this stance, Jaishankar pointed to the complexities of international relations, citing the example of Pakistan, a country with which India has a long-standing and complicated relationship. “My neighbor Pakistan has caused all sorts of problems under the sun, from nuclear armament to the transfer of nuclear technology to irresponsible partners, to terrorism” he said. “But doesn’t Germany also do business with Pakistan?” he asked, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic and realistic approach to international relations.