India's Foreign Ministry Addresses Key Global Issues in Weekly Briefing
In a recent press briefing, India's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal discussed a range of pressing global issues, including the situation in West Asia, the South China Sea, and India's diplomatic relations with neighboring countries. He expressed concerns over the deteriorating conditions in West Asia and emphasized the importance of safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The briefing also covered ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the recent Gulf tour by the Foreign Minister, and the status of Nirav Modi's extradition. Jaiswal reiterated India's commitment to addressing international organized crime and enhancing cooperation with partner nations. This comprehensive overview sheds light on India's foreign policy priorities and its stance on various international matters.
Jul 14, 2026, 19:08 IST
Overview of India's Foreign Policy and Global Concerns
During a weekly press briefing, spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, elaborated on several significant topics including the situation in West Asia, the South China Sea, the illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir by Pakistan, India's relations with Gulf nations, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, the extradition of fugitive Nirav Modi, international organized crime, and passport regulations. He emphasized that the foundation of India's foreign policy is based on dialogue, diplomacy, respect for international law, and the pursuit of global peace and stability.
Concerns Over West Asia's Deteriorating Situation
Expressing concern over the escalating situation in West Asia, Jaiswal stated that India is closely monitoring developments. He highlighted the necessity of safe and uninterrupted navigation and trade in the Strait of Hormuz, linking it to global economic and energy security. He reported that one Indian national was killed and several others injured, with two in critical condition, due to attacks on two vessels near the United Arab Emirates. Following these incidents, India summoned the Iranian Deputy Mission Chief to express its deep concern and condemned the attacks, calling for an immediate cessation of such actions. He urged all parties to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and pursue dialogue and diplomacy to ensure peace and stability in West Asia.
India's Stance on the South China Sea
Regarding the South China Sea, the spokesperson reiterated India's well-known position. He stated that maintaining freedom of navigation and overflight, lawful use of the seas, and uninterrupted trade in accordance with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is essential. He referred to the ruling by the arbitral tribunal a decade ago as a significant milestone for the peaceful resolution of disputes among the concerned parties.
Protests in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir
On the ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Jaiswal attributed the situation to decades of systematic exploitation, deprivation of basic rights, and administrative oppression by Pakistan. He accused Pakistan of using excessive police force instead of addressing the genuine grievances of the local population. He called on the international community to hold Pakistan fully accountable for these serious human rights violations and actions.
Recent Gulf Tour by the Foreign Minister
Referring to the recent Gulf tour by the Foreign Minister, Jaiswal noted that discussions with top leadership and counterparts in Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman focused on trade, energy, investment, and the current situation in West Asia. He emphasized that energy security was a crucial aspect of these discussions, with all countries sharing their perspectives on regional developments.
Development Projects in Bangladesh
In response to inquiries about India's development projects in Bangladesh, the spokesperson stated that the development cooperation program between the two nations operates on a basis of mutual consultation and will continue in the future.
Afghanistan's Agriculture Minister Visits India
Regarding the visit of Afghanistan's Agriculture Minister Mawlavi Ataullah Omari to India, Jaiswal mentioned that he spent nearly a week in the country, meeting with the Agriculture Minister, the Food Processing Minister, and the Minister of State for External Affairs. He also engaged with various national and international organizations related to the industry and agriculture sectors. Jaiswal confirmed that trade between India and Afghanistan continues through the air cargo corridor operating between Delhi and Kabul.
Extradition of Nirav Modi
On the extradition of fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, he stated that legal proceedings are ongoing, and once completed, his extradition to India will take place.
Response to U.S. Actions Against Organized Crime
In response to actions taken by the U.S. against Lawrence Bishnoi and his associate Goldy Brar, Jaiswal acknowledged that India has noted these announcements and comments. He stated that these remarks align with a recently publicized U.S. indictment that identified members of the Lawrence Bishnoi organized crime gang. He reiterated that terrorism, international organized crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, illegal arms trade, and such criminal networks pose serious threats to society. India remains committed to strengthening law enforcement and security cooperation with partner countries to tackle these challenges, with cooperation between India and the U.S. against terrorism and international organized crime deepening and becoming more effective.
Indian Passport Issuance Process
In response to a question about the Indian passport system, Jaiswal explained that the Indian government issues passports to citizens following the procedures outlined in the Passport Act of 1967 and the Passport Rules of 1980, after proper verification. He noted that currently, less than eight percent of Indian citizens possess a passport.
Indian Companies and Petroleum Trade with Russia
When asked whether Indian companies are supplying petroleum products to Russia, he stated that companies are free to conduct their business. He clarified that India imports crude oil, refines it, and companies have been selling it domestically as well as abroad.