In a speech delivered in Kolkata, he highlights India's credibility as a global voice, a democratic powerhouse, and a significant technological player, while also acknowledging the steady nature of India-Russia ties beyond defense cooperation.
External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, asserted India's commitment to maintaining strong ties with both Russia and the United States, without being tied down to exclusive relationships. Speaking at an event in Kolkata, he emphasized that India's relationships should not be seen as a zero-sum game and highlighted India's growing credibility as a voice of the global south and a strong democratic power with significant technology relevance for the developed world.
Jaishankar's remarks come in the wake of his recent praise for India-Russia ties, acknowledging their steadiness despite challenges. He clarified that India's relations with Russia go beyond just defense dependence, with a notable upswing in economic cooperation, according to media reports.
India's role as Europe's largest supplier of refined fuels and simultaneous purchase of record amounts of Russian crude oil further strengthens its position in international trade and energy markets. The ban on Russian oil has led to Europe's growing reliance on Indian crude oil products.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent State visit to the United States, bilateral talks with President Joe Biden emphasized the significance of technology cooperation, indicating India's growing role as a key technological partner.