India Describes NSA Doval's Meeting with US Ambassador as Standard Diplomatic Practice
In a recent press briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the discussions between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor were part of routine diplomatic engagements. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that such interactions are common and focus on bilateral matters of mutual importance.
Normal Conversations on Bilateral Issues
Jaiswal stated, "These are normal conversations that keep happening. Both sides discussed issues of bilateral importance. All the issues that are in the gamut of the bilateral arena are discussed in these issues." This underscores the ongoing nature of India-US diplomatic dialogue, which regularly addresses key areas of cooperation and shared concerns.
India's Diplomatic Outreach on West Asia Tensions
Beyond the US talks, Jaiswal highlighted External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's proactive engagement with counterparts in the Gulf region amid escalating tensions in West Asia. "External Affairs Minister has spoken to his counterpart in the United Arab Emirates. He has been speaking to several other foreign ministers, including in the GCC [Gulf Cooperation Council] and in West Asia, and they have exchanged perspectives on the developments that are happening there," he explained.
India has consistently advocated for diplomatic solutions to conflicts. Jaiswal reiterated, "You know our position where we stand on the West Asia conflict, and we have been reiterating that there should be an early end to this conflict, keeping in mind that the best way forward is to take the path of dialogue and diplomacy."
Prime Minister Modi's Global Engagements
Adding to the diplomatic efforts, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in contact with various global leaders regarding the ongoing conflict. Jaiswal noted, "We have been talking to all sides. Today, our Prime Minister also spoke to the Sultan of Oman. He also spoke to the President of France and the Prime Minister of Malaysia. So global leaders have been talking to each other. Our Prime Minister has been talking to each other, emphasising how we look at the situation and what our priority is, how we should go forward." This reflects India's active role in fostering international dialogue and stability.
Clarification on BRICS and SCO Memberships
Regarding issues related to BRICS, Jaiswal provided clarity by stating, "BRICS membership and SCO membership are two different categories. So if you look at who the members are, you will get an answer as to why we are having issues with developing a consensus in that regard." This points to the complexities in multilateral forums and India's strategic considerations in such groupings.
The MEA's statements reinforce India's commitment to diplomatic engagement both bilaterally with the US and multilaterally in addressing global challenges like the West Asia conflict.
