New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking at the NDTV Defence Summit 2025, delivered a candid assessment of India’s evolving foreign policy stance, underscoring the principle that global diplomacy is driven not by sentiment but by strategic interests.
Addressing a gathering of defence experts, diplomats, and policymakers, Singh remarked, “There are no permanent friends or enemies in international relations — only permanent interests.” His statement came in response to questions about the United States’ past tariff impositions on Indian goods during Donald Trump’s presidency, including a 50% duty on Indian exports.
Singh highlighted the dramatic shift in India’s defence budget, which stood at ₹700 crore in 2014 and has since surged to ₹24,000 crore, reflecting the country’s growing strategic ambitions and self-reliance in defence manufacturing. He emphasised that India’s defence partnerships must be rooted in mutual benefit and long-term vision, not transient political alignments.
The Defence Minister also pointed out that while India once relied heavily on foreign suppliers, the current focus is on indigenous production and technological advancement. “Today, our defence sector is not just about procurement — it is about innovation, resilience, and strategic autonomy,” he said.
Singh’s remarks resonated with the audience, especially in the context of shifting global alliances and the need for India to assert its position as a responsible and self-sufficient power. He called for pragmatic engagement with global powers, noting that India must prioritise its national interests above all.
The summit also touched upon the importance of India’s collaboration with like-minded nations to ensure regional stability and counter emerging threats. Singh reiterated that India’s foreign policy will continue to be guided by strategic clarity and national priorities.