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Like many other countries, India values its “strategic autonomy.” The U.S. Ambassador is entitled to his opinion. “Obviously we have different views,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told a weekly media briefing. (File image: X)
Last week, US Ambassador Eric Garcetti said at an event that “strategic autonomy” cannot be applied in times of conflict and that India and the United States must work to uphold principles when they violate the rules-based order or violate sovereign borders.
India on Friday said it values its “strategic autonomy”, days after US Ambassador Eric Garcetti made remarks that appeared to criticize Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia. Provides space for “reaching consensus”.
Last week, Garcetti said at an event that “strategic autonomy” cannot be applied in times of conflict and that India and the United States must work to uphold principles when they violate the rules-based order or violate sovereign borders.
Although the U.S. envoy did not mention Modi's trip to Moscow, the remarks were largely seen as criticism from Washington of the visit.
“India, like many other countries, values its 'strategic autonomy'. The US ambassador is entitled to his opinion. Obviously, we have different views,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at a weekly media briefing.
“Our comprehensive global strategic partnership with the United States gives us room to reach consensus on certain issues while respecting each other's views,” he said.
Jaiswal made the remarks when asked about Garcetti's remarks.
As comprehensive global strategic partners, India and the United States regularly discuss bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual concern. We will not share the details of the diplomatic dialogue,” he said.
Speaking at an event in Delhi on July 11, Garcetti said that India and the United States must adhere to democratic principles.
“I know…and I respect that India likes its strategic autonomy. But in times of conflict, there is no strategic autonomy. In times of crisis, we need to understand each other. I don't care what title we give it, but we need to know that we are worthy A trusted friend, a brother, a sister, a colleague,” he said.
In an apparent reference to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the US envoy said “war is no longer far away”.
He said: “War is no longer far away. We cannot just support peace. We must take concrete actions to ensure that those who do not abide by the rules of peace cannot continue to have their war machines unabated.”
Several other Biden administration officials also commented after Modi's visit and expressed concerns about India's relationship with Russia.
When asked about the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump, Jaiswal referred to Modi's remarks on the matter.
“We saw reports of an attack on former US President Donald Trump. Within hours of the news, our Prime Minister expressed deep concern about the attack and strongly condemned it.
“He also pointed out that violence has no place in politics and democracy. He wished the former president a speedy recovery and expressed solidarity with the families of the deceased, the injured and the American people.
“The United States is a democracy and we wish them all the best,” Jaiswal added.
(This article has not been edited by News18 staff and is published by PTI)
