New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday underlined India’s strategic outlook in global affairs, declaring that in geopolitics there are no permanent friends or enemies—only permanent interests. His remarks came against the backdrop of strained ties with the United States over tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, and a thaw in India’s relations with China after years of tension.
Speaking at the NDTV Defence Summit 2025, Singh made a veiled reference to Washington’s recent move to slap 50% tariffs on Indian goods, saying that India’s policies, strategy, and self-reliance will not be shaken by global pressure.
“There are no permanent friends or enemies, only permanent interests. India does not consider anyone its enemy. The interests of our farmers, entrepreneurs, and small traders are most important to us. We cannot compromise on our country’s welfare at any cost. No matter how much pressure is exerted, India will continue to give the highest priority to the interests of its farmers, shopkeepers, livestock keepers, and common citizens,” he said.
Drawing an analogy, the Defence Minister added: “We all study in geography that the more pressure is applied, the stronger the rock becomes. I feel that the more pressure is put on India, the more it will emerge as a strong rock.”
His comments echo similar assertions made earlier this week by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who told a rally in Ahmedabad that India “will not succumb to any pressure” and would continue to strengthen its capacity to withstand external challenges. Modi had assured farmers, shopkeepers, and entrepreneurs that their interests remained paramount for his government.
Relations between New Delhi and Washington have soured in recent weeks after Trump imposed steep tariffs on India, effective August 27, citing its continued purchase of Russian oil. The US administration has accused India of fueling President Vladimir Putin’s “war machine” in Ukraine through oil imports. India, however, has defended its stance, saying energy security and the welfare of its citizens come first.
Even as tensions with the US rise, India appears to be moving towards a recalibration of ties with China. After nearly five years of strained relations following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, both countries have taken steps to restore engagement. Earlier this month, New Delhi and Beijing agreed to resume direct flights and expand trade and investment flows.
A Bloomberg report recently suggested that Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a confidential letter to President Droupadi Murmu in March this year, signaling Beijing’s interest in resetting ties.
Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled visit to China on August 31 for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit—his first in seven years—is expected to mark a significant step in this direction.
