SOURCE: AFI
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has lauded Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for his assertive stance on India’s oil procurement from Russia amid the conflict in Ukraine. Lavrov commended Jaishankar’s response during a speech at the United Nations, where he advised critics to focus on their own affairs and highlighted the West’s continued reliance on Russian oil.
Speaking at the World Youth Forum in Sochi, Lavrov recalled Jaishankar’s resolute words, emphasizing the importance of national dignity. “My friend, Foreign Minister Subramanyam Jaishankar, was once at the UN, giving a speech. He was asked why they started buying so much oil from Russia. He advised them to mind their own business and reminded them at the same time how much oil the West had started buying and continued to buy oil from the Russian Federation. This is national dignity,” Lavrov stated.
The exchange underscores India’s principled stance on its economic relationships, affirming its commitment to sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs. Lavrov’s remarks signal appreciation for Jaishankar’s diplomatic approach, which upholds India’s interests while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics.