WEBDESK: Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar has said that India will not accept any third-party mediation in its relations with Pakistan.
Speaking at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum in New Delhi, Jaishankar said that India’s position has been consistent for more than five decades. “Since the 1970s, there has been a national consensus in India that no mediation will be accepted in relations with Pakistan,” he stated.
He made it clear that the ceasefire with Pakistan took place through direct talks between the two countries and not because of outside intervention. “After Operation Sundoor, several countries including the United States contacted us. But these were only diplomatic exchanges, not negotiations or mediation. All details of the US contacts are available on my X account,” Jaishankar said.
The Indian minister also criticised former US President Donald Trump, saying he had never seen an American leader conduct foreign policy in such a public manner.
Jaishankar accused both the US and Pakistan of repeatedly ignoring history. He added that India’s foreign policy is not driven by short-term politics or convenience but by long-term trust and strong structures.
He said India would never compromise on its sovereignty. “When it comes to protecting farmers’ interests, our strategic autonomy, or rejecting mediation, our position is clear. We will defend our sovereignty at all costs,” he added.
Jaishankar also criticised India’s opposition, saying they must explain if they disagree with protecting farmers’ rights or strategic independence.
Read more: Modi govt turns constitution into weapon against opposition
