What Does Putin's Visit Mean for India-Russia Relations? Insights from EAM Jaishankar
Strengthening India-Russia Ties
New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that the partnership between India and Russia has been one of the most consistent global relationships over the past 70 to 80 years. He noted that President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to New Delhi aimed to 'reimagine' this relationship with a strong emphasis on economic collaboration.
During a session at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit, Jaishankar countered the notion that Putin's visit might hinder India's ongoing trade negotiations with the United States. He stated, 'I disagree with that perspective. It's well understood that India maintains relationships with all major global powers.'
Jaishankar further elaborated that expecting any country to dictate how India manages its international relations is unreasonable. He highlighted India's commitment to strategic autonomy and the importance of maintaining multiple relationships.
He acknowledged the current focus of the U.S. administration on trade, asserting that India's approach is guided by its national interests. 'Trade is a significant concern now, more than it has been in previous administrations, and we are ready to engage on reasonable terms,' he remarked.
The minister pointed out that the India-U.S. relationship is currently facing challenges, particularly after the U.S. imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods, including a 25% levy on India's procurement of Russian crude oil. Negotiations for a potential trade agreement are ongoing, with Jaishankar stressing the importance of protecting the livelihoods of Indian workers and farmers during these discussions.
Regarding Putin's visit, Jaishankar stated that for a 'big' and 'rising' nation like India, it is crucial to foster cooperation with key global players while respecting its freedom of choice. He reiterated that India-Russia relations have endured many fluctuations over the decades, making them one of the most stable partnerships among major countries.
He acknowledged that while Russia has prioritized its economic ties with the West and China, India has also sought to strengthen its economic relationship with Russia, which had not kept pace in recent years. Putin's visit was seen as an opportunity to enhance this aspect of the relationship.
Jaishankar highlighted significant outcomes from the visit, including a mobility agreement that would create job opportunities for Indians in Russia and a joint venture in fertilizers, addressing India's status as the world's second-largest fertilizer importer.
On the topic of India-China relations, Jaishankar emphasized that maintaining peace along the border is essential for fostering good relations, while also addressing various other issues such as trade and investment.
When discussing Pakistan, Jaishankar pointed out that many of India's challenges stem from the Pakistani military's actions and its support for terrorism. He expressed that India should not be overly concerned with Pakistan's situation, emphasizing the need to focus on India's own capabilities.
In relation to Bangladesh, he expressed India's supportive stance towards the country and its democratic processes, expressing confidence that the outcomes would positively influence bilateral relations.