In a forthright address at The Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized India’s unwavering stance on strategic autonomy, trade negotiations, and global engagements, asserting that New Delhi will not succumb to external pressures.

Speaking on the longstanding issue of third-party mediation with Pakistan, he reiterated that for over five decades, India has maintained a firm national consensus against any external mediation in its bilateral relations. “If anybody disagrees with us, please tell the people of India that you are not prepared to defend the interests of farmers… We will do whatever we have to do to maintain strategic autonomy,” he stressed.

Dr. Jaishankar also addressed ongoing India-US trade talks, clarifying that negotiations are continuing but underlining India’s “red lines” in protecting domestic stakeholders, particularly farmers and small producers. He dismissed criticisms regarding India’s oil exports, stating, “If you have a problem buying oil or refined products from India, don’t buy them… Europe buys, America buys, so you don’t like it, don’t buy it.”

On US foreign policy, he noted the unprecedented public conduct of President Donald Trump and described it as a major departure from traditional diplomatic norms.

Regarding India-Russia relations, Jaishankar confirmed plans for the upcoming annual summit with President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the desire to further strengthen trade and mobility between the two nations. He also commented on Putin’s Alaska visit and reiterated India’s wish for an early resolution to the ongoing conflict on mutually agreed terms.

Addressing India-China relations, he cautioned against oversimplified narratives, emphasizing that issues with America do not automatically translate into similar outcomes with China, as timelines and challenges differ. On global supply chain disruptions, he stressed the importance of Atmanirbharta (self-reliance), advising diversification and boosting domestic production.

Jaishankar also commented on US-Pakistan relations, highlighting the historical context and cautioning against oversimplified interpretations. On Operation Sindoor and mediation narratives, he clarified that calls were made by the US and other countries, but asserted that the outcome of negotiations between India and Pakistan remained sovereignly negotiated by the two nations.