FM Nirmala Sitharaman’s First Response to Donald Trump’s Return as US President

FM On Donald Trump: In an insightful conversation with Republic Media Network’s Editor-in-Chief Arnab Goswami in the 4th edition of India Economic Summit, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman shared her thoughts on India's non-aligned foreign policy, the comeback of Donald Trump and the resilience India has shown under Prime Minister Narendra Modi ’s leadership.

Can India Remain Non-Aligned?

Responding to Editor-in Chief Arnab Goswami's question on whether India can continue its non-aligned stance, FM Sitharaman highlighted India's unique position globally. With leaders like Trump favoring protectionist policies and tariffs, she acknowledged that India’s non-aligned approach might evolve in expression, yet its foundation would remain the same.

“I am not sure we will ever change being non-aligned in India,” she stated.

“India’s geopolitical location necessitates us to maintain friendships everywhere, irrespective of whether the world is unipolar, bipolar, or multipolar.” She emphasized that this approach enables India to maintain stable relations globally, explaining, “Circumstances might change, but your friendship and alignment should continue with each of them. You cannot afford to alienate one group.”

The Comeback of Donald Trump

Discussing Donald Trump’s past accusations that India is a “big abuser” of tariffs, FM Sitharaman addressed the potential impact on Indo-US relations. She pointed out that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India has managed to navigate complex challenges effectively, including those involving international trade and tariffs.

“I think one thing is very clear, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, we were able to navigate during COVID", she said, emphasizing that the unprecedented challenges required unique solutions. She stressed the need for India’s balanced approach to tariffs, indicating that each decision was made to protect national interests without isolating India on the global stage. 
“It is possible to explain every tariff we have levied,” she added.

Prime Minister Modi’s Strategic Decisions During COVID

FM Sitharaman also praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, especially in times of crisis. She recalled the challenges India faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in obtaining foreign vaccines amid stringent conditions. Prime Minister Modi prioritized India’s independence in healthcare and vaccine development, reflecting his commitment to national interests.

“When the challenges were like never seen before, the Prime Minister logically explained why India had to take a position,” she said, citing examples like the import of Russian oil and domestic vaccine production. PM Modi’s steadfast decisions ensured India’s preparedness without compromising autonomy.

“There were many temptations to opt for foreign vaccines, but there was a ‘dharma sankat’,” she explained. “Yet, the Prime Minister stood by his decision to ‘do it on our own,’ showcasing the quality of a leader who puts India first.”

(Originally published first on Republic World)