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A former top American diplomat told US legislators that India had obligations to Russia, as well as territorial disputes with China in their neighbourhood.
The envoy was responding to questioning from legislators about New Delhi’s decision to abstain from many UN votes on Russian aggression against Ukraine.
“India has obligations to Russia, as well as obligations in its immediate vicinity, including territorial disputes with China. As Americans, I believe we share a bond with Indians because of their democracy and system’s diversity “According to Atul Keshap
“We must work together to overcome these obstacles as friends in order to show the world’s two most strong democracies’ strength.” Keshap, who is now president of the US India Business Council (USIBC) and formerly served in the State Department in several roles, including as Chargé d’affairs to India, said this during a Congressional hearing on the Indo-Pacific organised by the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
“There will be moments like these,” Keshap added, “but I’m sure we’ll get through it and be on a stronger footing going ahead if we communicate to each other as friends.”
“What do you think this means for India’s approach in dealing with the sanctions put on Russia and Russian interests by so many countries around the world?” A member of Congress, Abigail Spanberger, had enquired.
“From my perspective, nations make their own decisions, do their own calculus, take in all the information, and then decide what is best for them,” Keshap explained.
“In terms of the reliability, utility, and value of the collaboration with the United States, we have demonstrated over and over again, to the Indian government and the Indian people, that we are true friends,” Keshap added.
“In times of need, we are a friend. In times of crisis, we are a reliable ally. We deliver, and we deliver on time.
“There are some things I don’t like to discuss in an open setting like this,” he continued, “but the United States has always come through in the recent past, thanks to the strength of our QUAD alliance.”
“And, as you know, India will make its own decisions, but I believe that the United States, with its 250 or 350 million people and USD 22 trillion economy, is valuable and relevant to the people of India.”
