Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed India’s call for the end of war in Ukraine, in a special interview with Le Figaro, emphasized the need for global solidarity with the global South, and clarified India’s strong position on terrorism and strategic autonomy.
Speaking on India-France relations, Jaishankar said, “For many years, there has been a very strong economic and strategic, citizen and military partnership with France in India. The word ‘Trust’ is central for this relationship.” He said that the aim of the two countries is to strengthen cooperation in defense, nuclear power, AI, space and environmental matters.
On the issue of tension with Kashmir and Pakistan, the minister reiterated that the struggle arises from terrorism, not bilateral disputes. He said, “It has become an India-Pakistan issue as Pakistan supports and supports terrorists. The struggle is between India and terrorism,” he said. Referring to the recent April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, Jaishankar warned, “If terrorists attack India, we will join Pakistan wherever they are.”
He said that there was widespread international support for India’s retaliation, calling the United Nations Security Council for “accountability and justice”.
When asked about China’s support for Pakistan, Jaishankar warned against double standards: “On an issue like terrorism, you cannot afford ambiguity.”
Regarding the role of China in Indo-Pacific, Jaishankar emphasized that India and China are “two ancient civilizations” which are navigating the growing power and unresolved border issues. “Our relations have passed through a difficult period since the 2020 military conflict in the Himalayas,” he said, “he said that the discussion is going on to resume suspended exchanges like direct flights.”
On Indo-American relations under President Donald Trump, Jaishankar said that bilateral relations have strengthened five US administration. Despite the tariff threats, he said, “We had already started bilateral talks for a trade agreement. We are expecting to reach an agreement before the tariff suspension ends on 9 July.”
On Trump’s foreign policy, Jaishankar observed his early support for the quad and commented, “We see America acting in accordance with its immediate selfishness. To be honest, I will do the same with him.”
Addressing Ukraine’s struggle, Jaishankar confirmed India’s non-monopolized position: “We have helped both Ukraine and Russia as much as we can. The parties should have a direct conversation, the sooner it is.” He said, “Large parts of the world -from Africa to Latin America to Pacific Islands -their economies and stability have been negatively affected by this struggle. The world wants to stop it. On this issue, we speak from the global south.”
Defining the Global South, Jaishankar described it as “developing countries, who have tolerated the painful heritage of the colonial … and now they are trying to acquire the location they deserve in the international order.”
When asked about India’s internal diversity, especially about its Muslim population, Jaishankar rejected Western concerns. He said, “It is largely exaggerated, and sometimes lump sum is false. For us, there are many languages, beliefs, ethnicity and traditions that we are,” he said.
Speaking on the reforms of the United Nations Security Council, Jaishankar claimed India’s readiness for a major global role. “We are the most populous countries … fast active on the world stage. Many countries are calling for it. The United Nations is 80 years old and struggling with its responsibilities,” he said. (AI)
