Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : ‘Strategic Autonomy’ Part Of India’s History And Evolution: EAM S Jaishankar and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar asserted yesterday (14 February) that India remains firmly committed to strategic autonomy, addressing questions over whether a recent trade agreement with the United States would compromise New Delhi’s independent foreign policy.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Jaishankar declared that strategic autonomy is “very much a part of our history and our evolution” and cuts across the political spectrum.
The statement came amid scrutiny over India’s energy ties with Russia following a US-India trade deal announced earlier this month.
US President Donald Trump claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi had committed to stop purchasing Russian oil as part of an arrangement that lowered US tariffs on Indian goods from 50 per cent to 18 per cent.
The Ministry of External Affairs has neither confirmed nor denied the claim, stating only that India’s approach focuses on diversifying energy sources to ensure security for 1.4 billion people.
Responding to Financial Times Editor Roula Khalaf at the conference, Jaishankar described global energy markets as complex, noting that Indian oil companies make decisions based on availability, costs and risks rather than political considerations.
Jaishankar emphasised India’s commitment to independent decision-making, stating countries continuously reassess their partnerships in a rapidly changing global environment.
He acknowledged that while India seeks common ground with partners, it will make choices that “may not agree with your thinking or somebody else’s thinking”.
The minister also met with G7 foreign ministers at the conference, reiterating India’s support for the UN80 agenda and highlighting New Delhi’s role in maritime security and global stability.