The North News
New Delhi, August 23
External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Saturday said that Washington’s current leadership has broken with the discreet traditions of American diplomacy, instead pursuing a markedly public style of engagement. He characterised President Trump’s conduct in both global and domestic affairs as an “unprecedented departure” from the orthodox methods long associated with US foreign policy.
Speaking at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025 in New Delhi, Jaishankar also rejected the idea of outside involvement in India’s dealings with Pakistan, underlining that New Delhi’s position on mediation had been consistent for more than half a century.
“Since the 1970s there has been a national consensus in this country that we do not accept mediation in our relations with Pakistan,” he said. “When it comes to trade, the interests of farmers, our strategic autonomy, and opposition to mediation, this government is very clear. If anybody disagrees with us, please tell the people of India you are not prepared to defend the interests of farmers. Please tell them you don’t value strategic autonomy. We do. We will do whatever we have to do to maintain it.”
On economic disputes, Jaishankar defended India’s energy purchases amid western criticism. He pointed to the paradox of a pro-business US administration questioning Indian trade practices. “It’s funny to have people who work for a pro-business American administration accusing others of doing business,” he remarked. “If you have a problem buying oil or refined products from India, don’t buy it. Nobody forces you. Europe buys, America buys. If you don’t like it, don’t buy it.”
The minister’s remarks highlighted both India’s determination to preserve its foreign policy autonomy and the shifting nature of global diplomacy, where statecraft is increasingly conducted in the public eye rather than through traditional, closed channels.
Jaishankar also said talks on a trade agreement with the United States were ongoing, but emphasised that New Delhi would not compromise on key domestic priorities.
“Negotiations are still continuing — nobody has said they are off,” he told the forum. “We do have some red lines, and those red lines are clear: the interests of our farmers and, to some extent, our small producers. As a government, we are committed to defending them. That is not something we can compromise on,” he said.
