'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 had a pointed response to an Australian journalist questioning whether 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 other 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 other 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 the angst it should cause me."

Illustrating his point with the example of Pakistan , Jaishankar noted that if the 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 the 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 further 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 the conflict to the negotiation table.

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