India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed optimism regarding the continued growth of its strategic partnership with the United States, despite recent geopolitical challenges and leadership transitions. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that the India-US relationship is anchored in shared democratic values, mutual interests, and strong people-to-people connections.
During a media briefing, Jaiswal stated, “India and the United States share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties. This partnership has weathered several transitions and challenges. We remain focused on the substantive agenda that our two countries have committed to and are confident that the relationship will continue to move forward.”
The spokesperson also emphasized the strength of India-US defence cooperation, noting that it has been steadily bolstered in recent years. Jaiswal pointed out the potential for further growth under the framework of the India-US COMPACT for the 21st century. He responded to concerns regarding India’s defence procurement choices, clarifying that the selection of defence requirements is dictated solely by the country’s national security needs and strategic assessments. This comment comes in light of reports that India declined a US offer to procure F-35 fighter jets, coinciding with the imposition of new US tariffs on Indian goods.
Tensions have heightened following criticism from former President Donald Trump regarding India’s ties with Russia, particularly related to its purchases of Russian oil and weapons, alongside the imposition of a 25 percent tariff on these transactions. Earlier, the Indian government announced to Parliament that it has not engaged in any formal discussions with the US concerning the procurement of F-35 jets.
On the topic of India’s relationship with Russia, Jaiswal clarified that India’s bilateral relations with any country should be evaluated on their individual merits and not through the prism of a third nation’s perspective. He reaffirmed that “India’s partnership with Russia has been steady and time-tested.”
Additionally, in response to reports about Indian companies potentially halting imports of Russian oil, Jaiswal stated that the government is unaware of specific instances. He underscored India’s broad approach to energy sourcing, which considers available market options and the prevailing global situation, further suggesting that there were no specifics known to the government at this time.
