Jaishankar Criticizes Western Support for Pakistan's Military Regimes, Calls Out Double Standards

During his recent visit to Europe, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a sharp critique of Western nations, particularly European countries, for their historical support of military regimes in Pakistan. He accused these nations of undermining democracy in the region, highlighting a perceived inconsistency between their professed democratic values and their foreign policy actions.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar questioned the West’s so-called ‘democratic’ credentials over its support of military regimes while discussing Pakistan’s support for terrorism in Kashmir. (IMAGE: PTI)

Highlighting Western Hypocrisy

In an interview with the Danish newspaper Politiken, Jaishankar stated, "No one has supported the military regime—and undermined democracy in Pakistan in so many ways—as much as the West." He emphasized that since India's independence in 1947, its borders have been repeatedly violated by Pakistan, yet Western democracies have often aligned themselves with Pakistan's military dictatorships.

Jaishankar questioned the West's commitment to the principle of inviolable borders, asking, "You talk about the inviolability of borders—well, why don't we start with the inviolability of my borders?"

Context of the Remarks

Jaishankar's comments came during his three-nation tour of the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany, aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties and discussing global security challenges. In Berlin, he met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other senior officials to discuss strategic partnerships, counter-terrorism cooperation, and resilient supply chains.

The minister's remarks also touched upon India's recent military operation, Operation Sindoor, launched in response to a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam region. He reiterated India's stance of zero tolerance for terrorism and emphasized that India would deal with Pakistan bilaterally, without external mediation.

Historical Western Support for Pakistan's Military

Historically, Western nations, including the United States, have provided substantial military and economic aid to Pakistan, even during periods of military rule. For instance, the U.S. delivered significant aid during General Ayub Khan's regime in the 1960s, despite Pakistan being under military governance.

Additionally, the Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act of 2009, also known as the Kerry-Lugar-Berman Act, provided $7.5 billion in non-military aid to Pakistan over five years. While aimed at strengthening civilian institutions, the act faced criticism within Pakistan for perceived infringements on sovereignty and attempts to undermine the military establishment.

India's Stance on Sovereignty and Terrorism

Jaishankar emphasized India's commitment to sovereignty and the principle of non-interference. He highlighted that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan was achieved through direct negotiations between their militaries, countering claims of external mediation. 

He also pointed out that many of the most notorious terrorists listed by the United Nations are based in Pakistan, operating openly with state support. This, he argued, underscores the need for a consistent and principled international approach to combating terrorism. 

Conclusion

Jaishankar's candid remarks reflect India's growing assertiveness on the global stage and its willingness to challenge perceived double standards in international relations. By calling out historical Western support for Pakistan's military regimes, he aims to highlight the complexities of regional geopolitics and advocate for a more consistent application of democratic principles in foreign policy.

(Source: News18, Times of India, Firstpost)