‘Don’t teach us the game’ – Jaishankar’s befitting reply to the West on Russian oil, questions on Europe-America’s dual policy

Helsinki. Amid continuous criticism from Western countries for purchasing oil from Russia, Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar gave a blunt reply during the Kulturanta talks held in Finland. He clearly said that India gives top priority to its energy security, economic needs and national interests and does not take decisions under any external pressure.

In the discussion organized on the topic ‘Emerging Powers and New Geopolitical Competition’, when questions were raised about India’s purchase of oil from Russia and its alleged soft stance, Jaishankar highlighted the contradictions in the policies of Western countries and said that before teaching India a lesson in morality, the world should also look at its own conduct.

Energy security is our first priority-
Jaishankar said that during the Russia-Ukraine war, there was huge turmoil in the global energy market. At that time, European countries increased oil purchases from the Middle East, which has been India’s traditional energy source. In such a situation, India had to find new options to suit its needs and buying oil from Russia was a practical decision.

He said that the first duty of any responsible government is to provide affordable and stable energy to its citizens. This is what India did and this decision was taken completely keeping national interests in mind.

Showed mirror to Europe also-
The Foreign Minister also raised questions on the security related arguments of Western countries. He said that India has never threatened the security of Europe, but India has seen many such occasions when weapons made in European countries were used against it.

Jaishankar said that if Europe takes its security concerns seriously then it should also understand India’s security challenges from the same perspective.

Taunt on America’s changing policy-
Jaishankar also reminded that America itself had encouraged India to buy Russian oil in the year 2022 so that the global oil market remains stable and prices remain under control.

He said that policies keep changing according to the circumstances in international politics. At one time the policy gets support, at another time questions are raised on it. The world understands this “game” very well and it cannot be considered a mere matter of morality or principles.

Emphasis on global peace and stability-
The Foreign Minister said that due to the current global conflicts, costs are increasing and the international system is being affected. At such a time, it is extremely important to strengthen diplomatic efforts and create an environment of dialogue.

Describing secure, strong and diversified supply chains as essential for the future global economy, he said the strategy of “de-risking” and “diversification” will play an important role in ensuring economic stability.

Clear message of independent foreign policy-
Jaishankar’s statement once again made it clear that India takes its foreign policy and economic decisions not on the basis of any pressure or ideological insistence, but according to national interests. He said that instead of looking at issues like energy security through a political or moral lens, there is a need to adopt a practical approach.

India’s priority is to provide affordable energy, economic stability and a secure future to its citizens, and the country will continue to decide its global strategy on this basis.