Jaishankar’s Light-hearted Remark on India’s Diplomatic Balance Amidst Trade Dynamics

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 19th Feb. 
In a lighthearted remark aimed at maintaining a balanced relationship between India and the United States amidst ongoing trade with Russia, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar quipped on Saturday that there was no reason for concern on India’s part.

Jaishankar made this comment during a security conference session in Munich, where he was accompanied by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.

Responding to a question about how India is balancing its growing bilateral relations with the United States while continuing trade with Russia, Jaishankar said, “Is this a problem? Why should this be a problem? I’m smart enough to have multiple options. You should praise me for that.” Sitting beside him was US Secretary of State Blinken.

This isn’t the first time that Foreign Minister S Jaishankar has openly expressed India’s stance and commitment to purchasing cheap Russian oil. He has previously been vocal about India’s position on various platforms.

Jaishankar also expressed concern over the situation in Gaza, stating that India has been advocating for a two-state solution to the Palestine issue for decades, and now, a larger number of countries not only support it but consider it “more necessary” than before.

Addressing the Gaza situation, Jaishankar described the events of October 7 as “terrorism” and emphasized that there is no alternative view on this, it was terrorism.

He further stated, “The second point, as Israel responded, it was important for Israel to be very careful about civilians being hurt. Observing human laws is an international obligation.”

Speaking on the issue of prisoners, he said that the return of captives is necessary today. He said that the fourth point requires a humanitarian corridor to deliver relief.