In a recent panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference, Bharat’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, firmly defended Bharat’s decision to continue buying Russian oil despite Western sanctions. When questioned about Bharat’s balancing act between the United States and Russia, Jaishankar confidently responded that having multiple options shouldn’t be a concern for others and should be admired instead.
The Foreign Minister highlighted the unrealistic expectation for countries to maintain unidimensional relationships in today’s interconnected world. His remarks garnered smiles from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Affairs Minister Annalena Baerbock, indicating a positive reception to his perspective on diplomatic relationships.
Jaishankar’s comments come amidst Western disapproval of Bharat’s continued oil trade with Russia, especially given the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He had previously rebutted such criticism by emphasizing the disparity in Europe’s oil purchases from Russia compared to Bharat’s, citing Bharat’s monthly purchase as significantly less.
EAM Jaishankar was again asked the same question of "buying Russian Oil" at Munich Security Conference in front of US secretary of state Antony Blinken.
Jaishankar: I am smart enough to have multiple alliances. You should be admiring me.
S Jaishankar is Captain Cool of politics… pic.twitter.com/MIid1KHfxC
— Incognito (@Incognito_qfs) February 17, 2024
Moreover, Jaishankar argued that Bharat’s purchase policies prevented a surge in global oil prices, thereby averting potential market competition with Europe. He reiterated Bharat’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, advocating for dialogue, diplomacy, and an immediate cessation of violence.
Acknowledging the differences between Bharat’s relationships with the US and Russia, Jaishankar emphasized that different countries and relationships have different histories. He clarified that Bharat is not purely unsentimentally transactional but occasionally makes choices based on its interests.
Pushing back against critics who label Bharat as “anti-West,” Jaishankar distinguished Bharat as “non-West” but deeply engaged with Western countries. He stressed the importance of recognizing Bharat’s strong relations with the West while maintaining its non-Western identity.
Overall, Jaishankar’s remarks underscore Bharat’s strategic approach to international relations, emphasizing pragmatism and the pursuit of national interests while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics.
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