New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday delivered a sharp critique of what he described as Western hypocrisy in reacting to global conflicts, citing the international response to India’s Operation Sindoor in May 2025 as a clear example. Speaking to members of the Indian community in Luxembourg, he questioned why countries geographically distant from a conflict often express concern while overlooking serious tensions and violence within their own regions.
Jaishankar noted that several nations, far removed from South Asia, tend to comment on developments elsewhere without applying the same scrutiny to their neighbourhoods. He observed that expressions of worry often come without reflection on comparable or greater risks closer to home. According to him, such reactions reflect a broader pattern in global diplomacy where words and actions rarely align.
Referring to how India approaches international partnerships, the minister said New Delhi differentiates clearly between those willing to engage constructively and those whose actions demand a firmer response. He emphasised that countries which act responsibly and positively are dealt with accordingly, while others that follow disruptive policies must be addressed differently.
Jaishankar also spoke candidly about how global advice is offered in today’s geopolitical climate. He remarked that countries frequently provide unsolicited guidance, sometimes thoughtfully, sometimes carelessly, and often driven by self interest. In his view, nations now act primarily when it serves their direct benefit, even as they caution others against steps that might create instability.
Recalling Operation Sindoor, Jaishankar said India received numerous advisories on how it should conduct itself during the operation. While India acknowledged these reactions as part of international reality, he suggested that the same countries rarely pause to assess how their own actions contribute to global unease. He added that this disconnect is simply a feature of the current world order and must be understood as such.
Beyond geopolitical commentary, Jaishankar highlighted the strengthening relationship between India and Luxembourg. He spoke about expanding cooperation across political, business and technology sectors and praised the Indian diaspora for playing a vital role in deepening bilateral ties. He described the interaction as a meaningful exchange reflecting India’s growing global engagement and confident diplomatic posture.
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