EAM S Jaishankar rejects Biden’s remarks, says India is not ‘Xenophobic’, but one of the most welcoming nations
- In Reports
- 02:10 PM, May 04, 2024
- Myind Staff
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar refuted US President Joe Biden’s characterization of India as “xenophobic” and lumping it together with economically troubled nations.
Speaking at the ET Roundtable, Jaishankar emphasised that India's economy remains robust. He highlighted India's historical openness as a society, stating that it has always welcomed people from diverse backgrounds.
Jaishankar also referenced the legislation enacted by the Narendra Modi government to enable such hospitality. He highlighted the CAA, which aims to provide refuge to individuals facing difficulties. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of being receptive to individuals who seek refuge in India and have legitimate reasons to do so.
The minister then criticised those who had voiced opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). He pointed out that certain individuals had publicly claimed that the CAA would result in the loss of citizenship for one million Muslims in the country. Jaishankar questioned why these individuals were not being held accountable, emphasizing that no one had actually lost their citizenship.
He stated that a portion of the western media, characterized by strong ideological leanings, aims to influence the global narrative and has consequently singled out India. Jaishankar noted that this segment has consistently advocated for controlling the global narrative.
Jaishankar remarked that certain entities within the western media have displayed overt political biases and preferences, openly aligning themselves with specific political parties in India.
He noted that they have actively engaged in taking positions on various issues and have not concealed their political inclinations. Their comments and judgments, he added, should be understood in the context of their declared biases and vested interests in Indian affairs.
The minister dismissed India's poor ranking on press freedom as a politically motivated act. He characterized the protests in US colleges over the Gaza conflict as revealing, noting the contrast between the lectures India receives during its own agitations and the scenes broadcasted on television screens.
Jaishankar emphasised the disparity between the preached ideals and the actual practices of certain entities, suggesting a lack of objectivity and political agendas at play. He labeled such actions as politics conducted through alternative methods, asserting his readiness to identify and denounce them.
Jaishankar dismissed press reports blaming India for targeted killings in Pakistan, citing the presence of terrorists in the region. He praised Prime Minister Modi as a once-in-a-lifetime leader, explaining his own transition from diplomacy to politics.
Image source: The Economic Times
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