India's External Affairs Minister Advocates for Strategic Partnerships in Brussels
Jaishankar's Diplomatic Engagements in Brussels
During his recent trip to Brussels, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the EU's foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas. He emphasized India's strategic significance and its role on the global stage while expressing concerns regarding certain EU policies.
In the context of ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement between India and the EU, Jaishankar presented India as a dependable economic ally. He stated, 'India, with its population of 1.4 billion, provides skilled labor and a more reliable economic partnership compared to China.'
Addressing the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir that resulted in 26 fatalities, Jaishankar countered narratives linking India's response to regional tensions. He remarked, 'Consider Osama bin Laden's long-term residence in a Pakistani military town. This issue transcends India-Pakistan relations; it fundamentally concerns terrorism, which will ultimately affect everyone.'
India's Stance on Global Conflicts
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar reiterated India's neutral position, stating, 'We do not believe that conflicts can be resolved through warfare. Solutions will not emerge from the battlefield, and it is not our role to dictate what those solutions should be.' He responded to critiques of India's decision not to impose sanctions on Russia by highlighting India's strong ties with Ukraine as well.
Jaishankar provided a historical context for India's foreign policy, recalling that India's borders were violated shortly after independence due to Pakistani aggression in Kashmir, supported by Western nations. He urged those countries to reflect on their past when discussing international principles.
On the topic of the evolving global landscape, Jaishankar stressed the importance of multipolarity, stating, 'Multipolarity is already a reality. Europe must increasingly make decisions that align with its own interests and capabilities.'
Concerns Over EU Climate Policies
Jaishankar expressed opposition to the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), stating, 'We have significant reservations about CBAM and have been transparent about our stance. The notion that one region can impose standards on others is unacceptable to us.'
When questioned about trust in US President Donald Trump, Jaishankar responded cautiously, emphasizing that India's focus is on advancing relationships that benefit its interests, particularly with the US, regardless of individual personalities.
He also noted the trend among European companies to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains, mentioning that many firms are now prioritizing secure and trustworthy locations for their operations over mere efficiency.