India swiftly responded to the devastating earthquake in eastern Afghanistan, which struck Kunar province, by sending relief materials and pledging further aid. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with the Taliban foreign minister to assess the situation and offer condolences, with India immediately delivering family tents and food supplies. The magnitude 6 earthquake resulted in over 800 fatalities and more than 2,000 injuries, with entire villages destroyed and rescue efforts hampered by landslides. Rescue teams faced challenges accessing remote areas and were in need of immediate support including medical aid, shelter, and heavy machinery.
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External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar criticized the US and Pakistan at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, highlighting their tendency to “overlook history,” specifically referencing the 2011 Abbottabad raid. He emphasized India’s foreign policy is guided by long-term confidence and national interests, rejecting any mediation in relations with Pakistan. Furthermore, Jaishankar refuted claims of US mediation in past ceasefire agreements, attributing the settlements to direct talks between India and Pakistan. The minister also underscored the government’s commitment to protecting India’s economic interests and strategic autonomy, warning against any challenges to these positions.
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During a meeting in Moscow, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar defended India’s energy policy, highlighting that the United States had previously urged India to stabilize the global energy market, even by purchasing oil from Russia. Jaishankar met with President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, discussing plans to access the Russian market and expedite cases of Indians recruited to fight in Ukraine. Discussions also included enhancing India-Russia trade through infrastructure and logistics, as well as cooperation in multilateral platforms and addressing labor shortages. Furthermore, the meetings encompassed the International North-South Transport Corridor and other initiatives to enhance economic linkages.
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John Q. Hosedrinker