India to play peacemaker in US-Iran conflict? Rajnath Singh hints on Modi govt's diplomacy

Berlin: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Wednesday that India has maintained a consistently balanced diplomatic posture under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting that the nation may eventually assume a larger role in mediating global conflicts, including the current crisis in West Asia.

Speaking to the Indian community at the Indian Embassy in Berlin, Singh remarked that while India has pursued peace initiatives, the success of such efforts is often dictated by timing and international circumstances. He specifically lauded Indian diplomacy for ensuring that several Indian vessels were permitted to navigate the Strait of Hormuz despite the ongoing regional blockade.

"India has tried... But everything has its time. It is possible that tomorrow, the time may come when India plays its role in this and achieves success as well. We cannot rule out this possibility," Singh said, emphasising the Prime Minister's involvement. "The Prime Minister has appealed to both sides to end the war. Our Prime Minister has a very balanced approach to diplomatic matters."

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Engagement with Global Leaders

The Defence Minister noted that Prime Minister Modi has personally consulted with the leaders of nations currently embroiled in major hostilities to advocate for dialogue.

"When he (PM Modi) met Russian President Putin and the Ukrainian President, he discussed this. Even when he met Trump, he also discussed and said that a solution should be found," Singh added.

Singh highlighted India’s unique standing in global geopolitics, characterised by its perceived neutrality and its ability to engage with opposing sides. He cited the maritime situation in the Middle East as evidence of this diplomatic efficacy.

"The way India is moving, you must have seen that in the Strait of Hormuz, no ship from any country was able to pass through. If anyone managed to pass through their 7-8 ships, then it was India," he said. "It is not that the US considers India as its enemy, or Iran considers India as its enemy. No, this is a very balanced approach of India."

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Strengthening Indo-German Ties

Singh’s remarks came during his inaugural visit to Germany, conducted at the invitation of German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius. He noted that the timing of the visit is significant as 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries.

"I believe that this is an achievement in itself; the relations between India and Germany have gradually become stronger with time," Singh stated. "Our relations are based on democratic values, completely based on democratic values."

Economic Partnership

Addressing commercial interests, Singh emphasised that Germany has evolved into India's premier trading partner within Europe. He pointed to the significant presence of more than 2,000 German firms operating within India as a catalyst for the "Make in India" initiative and domestic industrial growth.

Conversely, he noted that numerous Indian corporations have established a robust presence within the German market, reinforcing a bilateral economic bond that has matured over the last seven decades.

With inputs from ANI