New Delhi: During his visit to Brussels, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered strong remarks on terrorism, global diplomacy, and India’s evolving international partnerships. In an interview with Euractiv, Jaishankar urged the West to view India’s response to cross-border terrorism, such as the recent Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam attack, as part of a global fight against terrorism—not merely a conflict between India and Pakistan. He cited Osama bin Laden’s long-time hideout near a Pakistani military facility to stress that terrorism harboured by the state is a global threat. “Why did he, of all people, feel safe living for years in a Pakistani military town?” Jaishankar asked, adding that such threats inevitably spill beyond borders.
Addressing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s neutral stance. He said India believes that peace cannot be achieved through war and that New Delhi has chosen not to be prescriptive. While highlighting India’s long-standing ties with both Russia and Ukraine, he pointed out the historical context of Western nations supporting Pakistan during its initial aggression in Kashmir after Indian independence. “If those same countries now preach international principles, they must reflect on their own past,” he added.
On EU-India relations, Jaishankar noted that negotiations for a major free trade agreement are halfway through, as India seeks to diversify economic ties amid increasing closeness between Russia and China. He described the European Union as a rising global pole embracing “strategic autonomy” and said India is looking to deepen its partnership with Europe in an increasingly multipolar world.
However, Jaishankar expressed strong objections to the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)—a tax on imports from countries with less stringent climate rules. He said India has “deep reservations” about CBAM, arguing that no single part of the world should impose its standards on others.
On India-US relations, Jaishankar emphasized consistency and strategic interest over political personalities. He acknowledged that ties with the United States grew under former President Donald Trump and said India will continue to strengthen partnerships that serve its national interests, regardless of who is in office.
Regarding China, Jaishankar positioned India as a credible and secure alternative for global businesses looking to de-risk their supply chains. Citing recent meetings with European firms, he emphasized that India’s skilled workforce and data security make it a more reliable partner than China. “Would you really want your data in the hands of actors you don’t trust?” he asked, underscoring the need for trusted partnerships in a volatile global environment.
