External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has bly criticized the heavy tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian products, calling them 'unjust'. He stated that India will make independent decisions in its national interest, protecting the interests of farmers and small producers. Jaishankar also condemned the use of oil purchases as an excuse and emphasized strategic autonomy.
India US Trade Dispute: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar condemned the high tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian goods, describing them as unfair. He asserted that India has the right to make independent decisions in its national interest, safeguarding the interests of its farmers and small-scale producers. Jaishankar made these remarks at The Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025. He also dismissed accusations regarding energy purchases from Russia and criticized the double standards of Western countries. Emphasizing India's strategic autonomy, he stated that it is India's right to make decisions based on its national interests.
Protection of Farmers and Small Producers is Paramount
Jaishankar clarified that the interests of farmers and small producers are paramount for the government. He said, “Our biggest concern is the protection of our farmers and small producers. Our government is fully committed to their interests. People may say whatever they want, but we will leave no stone unturned to protect their interests. This is non-negotiable for us.”
The External Affairs Minister emphasized that India will remain independent in its policies and decisions. He also stated that the government is working at every level to protect farmers and small producers from economic losses.
Why Aren't Europe and China Questioned on Purchases from Russia?
Jaishankar said that it is unfair for the United States to question India's energy purchases from Russia. He pointed out that China and European countries are buying LNG from Russia, but no questions are being raised about them. Jaishankar stated, “People say that we are promoting the war by giving money to Russia, but trade between Russia and Europe is far more than India-Russia trade. If it is a question of oil purchases, Europeans buy more than India. Even in terms of trade, their volume is higher.”
During this time, he took a dig at the double standards and attitude of Western countries, stating that India will take independent decisions based on its national interests.
Dialogue with the US Continues
Jaishankar underscored that India has every right to make decisions according to its national interests and strategic autonomy. He said, “It is our right to take decisions in our national interest. That is strategic autonomy. Our decisions will be independent and based on national interests.”
The External Affairs Minister stated that despite tensions in relations with the United States, dialogue is ongoing. He mentioned that both countries remain on the path of dialogue and any issue is being discussed openly.
Key Highlights of Russia Visit
Recently, Jaishankar visited Russia. During this visit, he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. He also co-chaired the 26th meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, regional issues such as terrorism, the Ukraine crisis, West Asia, and Afghanistan were discussed in detail during this visit. Jaishankar also conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's greetings to Putin and discussed bilateral and global interests.
America-India Trade Dispute
Regarding the US tariffs, the External Affairs Minister said that India's position is clear. He emphasized that the country will make independent decisions according to its economy and the interests of its farmers. Negotiations on this issue are ongoing, but India will not compromise on its decisions in any way.
Jaishankar said that India will continue to cooperate with major global partners, but protecting its national interests will always be paramount. He also clarified that India's strategic autonomy will not be influenced by any external pressure.
