India's Firm Stance on Global Issues Highlighted in Recent Briefing
In a recent briefing, India's Ministry of External Affairs outlined the country's firm stance on various global issues, including trade with the U.S., energy security, and China's aggressive actions. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India's policies will not be influenced by external pressures. The briefing also addressed the ongoing negotiations for a balanced trade agreement with the U.S. and condemned China's infrastructure projects in disputed territories. Additionally, India's response to attacks on minorities in Bangladesh and the importance of judicial independence were highlighted. This briefing reflects India's evolving diplomatic approach, asserting its sovereignty and priorities on the global stage.
Jan 9, 2026, 18:39 IST
India's Diplomatic Position on Key Global Matters
During a recent weekly briefing by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal articulated India's clear and assertive stance on multiple fronts. Topics such as trade with the United States, energy security, the China-Pakistan alliance, attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, global multilateral organizations, and diplomatic decorum were addressed. India not only presented facts but also conveyed that its policies would not be swayed by pressure or misinformation.
Regarding a bill in the U.S. Congress imposing a 500% tariff on India, the Ministry firmly stated that India meets its energy needs through diverse sources in line with global market conditions. The spokesperson emphasized that energy security for 1.4 billion people is India's top priority, and the nation will not compromise its interests due to pressure from any single country.
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The Ministry also dismissed recent statements from the U.S. regarding the India-U.S. trade agreement as incorrect. The spokesperson noted that since February of last year, India and the U.S. have been negotiating a balanced and mutually beneficial agreement, having come close to consensus multiple times. Furthermore, it was clarified that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump have had eight phone conversations in 2025, countering claims that there has been no communication between the two leaders. The Ministry highlighted that their relationship is friendly and based on mutual respect in accordance with diplomatic norms.
India also responded strongly to China's aggressive actions. The Ministry condemned China's infrastructure development in the Shaksgam Valley under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a violation of India's sovereignty. It reiterated that the 1963 so-called Sino-Pakistan boundary agreement is illegal and invalid, asserting that the entire region of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh is an integral part of India. China has been repeatedly warned not to attempt to alter the ground realities, and India reserves the right to take necessary measures to protect its interests.
On the issue of attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, India criticized the government's denial as a dangerous trend. The Ministry stated that such denial emboldens criminals and is tantamount to turning a blind eye to the ground realities. In response to comments made by New York Mayor Jahan Mamdani, the Ministry issued a measured yet firm message emphasizing the importance of respecting judicial independence in any democracy. Regarding the Indus Water Treaty, the Ministry clarified that it is currently in a state of suspension. Additionally, India remarked that global issues can only be resolved through consultation and cooperation, as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to visit India on January 12 and 13 for bilateral talks covering all major issues.
This briefing from the Ministry of External Affairs reflects India's evolving diplomatic currency. India neither succumbs to pressure nor responds in ambiguous terms. Whether dealing with the U.S. or China, India is clearly defining its priorities and boundaries. Whether faced with threats of a 500% tariff or admonitions regarding Russian oil, India's response remains consistent: there will be no compromise on energy security. In the case of China, statements serve not only as reactions but also as warnings. The issues surrounding the Shaksgam Valley and CPEC demonstrate that India is now vocally asserting its regional sovereignty on every platform, a shift from previous attempts to sidestep such matters.
Furthermore, by presenting facts regarding trade discussions with the U.S., India has shown that misinformation can be countered with data and dialogue. The eight conversations between Modi and Trump prove that claims suggesting Modi did not contact Trump, leading to a breakdown in trade talks, are unfounded.