New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has defended India’s longstanding relationship with Russia, saying Moscow stood by New Delhi during crucial periods when the country’s security and territorial integrity faced threats.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference in New Delhi, Jaishankar said India and Russia have maintained close ties since the 1950s. He noted that the positive experiences of the past continue to influence India’s approach to Moscow.
Jaishankar recalled that the Soviet Union supported India at a time when several countries backed Pakistan’s military regime. He stressed that every country evaluates its foreign relationships based on its own history and experiences.
India’s partnership with Russia has since expanded beyond defence to include nuclear cooperation, trade, energy, investment and other areas.
Amid Western criticism of India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, Jaishankar has maintained that New Delhi’s priority is to protect its energy security and keep multiple sources of supply.
On the Ukraine conflict, he reiterated India’s position that the war should end through dialogue and diplomacy. India has also engaged with both Moscow and Kyiv on issues including Black Sea shipping, grain supplies, energy and critical infrastructure.