EAM Jaishankar at ET World Leaders Forum 2025: “India Will Never Accept Mediation on Pakistan Issue”

Delhi: At the prestigious Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar delivered a firm message on India’s stance regarding Pakistan and international mediation. He categorically stated that for over five decades, India has followed a clear national consensus — rejecting any external mediation in its bilateral relations with Pakistan.

Addressing global leaders, policymakers, and business representatives, Jaishankar emphasized that the issue is not just diplomatic but deeply tied to India’s national interests. “Since the 1970s, for more than 50 years now, there has been a national consensus in this country that we do not accept mediation in our relations with Pakistan,” he said, drawing strong applause from the audience.

The minister linked this policy to larger themes of strategic autonomy and farmers’ welfare. “When it comes to trade, when it comes to the interests of farmers, when it comes to our strategic autonomy, when it comes to opposition to mediation — this government is very clear. Our positions are there,” he asserted.

Jaishankar also threw a direct challenge to India’s political opposition. “If anybody disagrees with us, please tell the people of India that you are not prepared to defend the interests of farmers. Please tell the people of India you don’t value strategic autonomy. We do. We will do whatever we have to do to maintain it,” he remarked.