Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday underscored India’s “balanced” diplomatic approach under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and suggested that the country could play a bigger role in resolving global conflicts, including the West Asia crisis.
Singh is on an official visit to Germany at the invitation of German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius.
Addressing an Indian community event at the Indian Embassy in Berlin, Singh said India has made efforts towards peace but stressed that outcomes depend on timing and global conditions.
“India has made efforts, but these issues take time. The country could play a meaningful role in the future, and that possibility cannot be ruled out. The Prime Minister has appealed to both sides to end the war and has taken a balanced diplomatic approach,” he said.
He further noted that the Prime Minister has personally engaged with leaders of countries involved in major conflicts to encourage dialogue and peaceful resolution.
“When he met Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, he discussed these issues. He also raised the matter during his meeting with Donald Trump, emphasising the need to find a solution,” he said.
Highlighting India’s position in global geopolitics, Singh pointed to its engagement with multiple sides and what he described as a perception of neutrality, adding that India’s diplomacy helped its ships pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
“You would have noticed that during tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, ships from many countries were unable to pass. However, several Indian ships managed to do so. This is because neither the United States nor Iran sees India as an adversary. It reflects India’s balanced approach,” he said.
Earlier, addressing the gathering, the Defence Minister said, “This is my first visit to Germany. I am here at the invitation of German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius. I believe this in itself reflects the strength of our ties. India-Germany relations have steadily grown stronger over time. The year 2026 is significant as it marks 75 years of formal diplomatic relations. Our ties are rooted in democratic values.”
Singh pointed to the strong economic ties between India and Germany and the role of industry in strengthening the partnership.
“Over the past seven decades, our relations with Germany have expanded across sectors. Today, Germany is India’s largest trading partner in Europe. More than 2,000 German companies operate in India. German industry is contributing to India’s industrial growth and the Make in India initiative, while Indian companies are also establishing a strong presence in Germany,” he said.
(ANI)
