India has firmly denied claims made by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte regarding 'talks' between India and Russia over Ukraine issue. Rutte had suggested that US tariffs had pressured India to seek explanations from Russia about its strategy in Ukraine. However, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described these claims as "factually incorrect and entirely baseless."
"We have seen the statement by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte regarding a purported phone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and President Vladimir Putin of Russia. This statement is factually incorrect and entirely baseless. At no point has Prime Minister Modi spoken with President Putin in the manner suggested. No such conversation has taken place,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
MEA asks NATO to exercise responsibility
The MEA also schooled NATO, asserting that the alliance should be responsible and accurate while making statements in public.
“We expect the leadership of an important and esteemed institution like NATO to exercise greater responsibility and accuracy in public statements. Speculative or careless remarks that misrepresent the Prime Minister's engagement or suggest conversations that never occurred are unacceptable. As previously stated, India's energy imports are meant to ensure a predictable and affordable energy cost to the Indian consumer. India will continue taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security," he added.
MEA on H1B visa rule
Reacting to the US' proposed changes in the H1B visa program, the MEA said all concerned stakeholders were being engaged over the issue.
“We have seen the notice by the US Department of Homeland Security regarding the proposed rulemaking. I understand that stakeholders including the industry have one month to provide their comments. As we stated earlier, skilled talent mobility and exchanges have contributed enormously to technology development, innovation, economic growth, competitiveness and wealth creation in the United States and India. We would remain engaged with all concerned including the industry, hoping that these factors receive due consideration,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
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