New Delhi, April 3: Former Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, Syed Akbaruddin, stated on Friday that it is incorrect to claim that India follows the United States. He emphasized that such assertions are neither fair nor reflective of reality.
In a conversation with young Indian podcaster and entrepreneur Raj Shamani on his YouTube channel, Akbaruddin clarified that the notion of India trailing behind the U.S. is misguided. He cited examples, such as the former U.S. President Donald Trump establishing a group called the ‘Board of Peace,’ which Pakistan also joined. However, India chose not to participate, deeming it a non-genuine international organization.
He further noted that while the U.S. may disapprove of India’s negotiations with Iran to retrieve its ships, it has not prevented India from doing so. India has made it clear that it is taking measured steps, and if this approach proves successful, it will continue in the same manner.
Akbaruddin remarked that the U.S. prefers India to make decisions aligned with its interests. It desires other nations to send their ships, such as mine-sweeping vessels, but refrains from mentioning India by name, knowing that India operates independently. He provided several instances where India has not aligned with any particular side, including during the Ukraine conflict, where India maintained its stance despite U.S. pressure to participate in voting.
In conclusion, he expressed skepticism that anyone in the world genuinely believes India follows the U.S., including the U.S. itself. While some individuals may assert this to support their arguments, the truth is otherwise.
In India, the opposition frequently criticizes the government, alleging that it operates under pressure from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has made several statements implying that the Prime Minister is under such pressure.
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