'What About Pak?': Jaishankar's No-Nonsense Reply to Journo Questioning India-Russia Ties

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar , known for his straightforward approach to India's stance on global matters, recently h a pointed response to an Australian journalist questioning wher New Delhi acknowledges Canberra’s “angst” over its relations with Russia.  Responding to Sky News Australia's Sharri Markson, Jaishankar asserted that India hasn’t caused any “angst” for or nations, explaining that in today’s multipolar world, countries maintain complex relationships that aren’t exclusive.  

Responding to Sky News Australia's Sharri Markson, Jaishankar asserted that India hasn’t caused any “angst” for or nations, explaining that in today’s multipolar world, countries maintain complex relationships that aren’t exclusive.  

"I don't think we have given cause for any angst. In this day and age, countries don't have exclusive relationships. If I were to use that logic, I would say so many countries have a relationship with Pakistan . Look at angst it should cause me."

Illustrating his point with example of Pakistan , Jaishankar noted that if same logic were applied universally, India could cite Pakistan’s ties with various nations as a source of unease. "If I were to use that logic, I would say so many countries have a relationship with Pak. Look at angst it should cause me," he said.

Moreover, he emphasized that India’s decision to purchase discounted Russian oil helped mitigate a potential global energy crisis and control inflation.

Jaishankar furr explained that India’s balanced relationships with both Ukraine and Russia allow it to engage constructively with both sides, potentially facilitating diplomatic progress. He underscored India’s role as a stabilizing force, capable of encouraging dialogue and returning conflict to negotiation table.

Previously, when asked about India’s oil purchases from Moscow, Jaishankar h defended India’s right to secure its own energy needs. He ded that Europe must move beyond notion that European issues are global concerns, while world’s problems do not receive reciprocal attention.