New Delhi,Aug.30,2025:This statement arrives amid growing friction as U.S. President Trump imposes steep 50% tariffs on Indian exports, a move escalating trade war dynamic
No Permanent Friends or Enemies — A Strategic Mantra
No permanent friends or enemies — these powerful words marked the opening of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s keynote at the NDTV Defence Summit 2025, a clarion call declaring that India’s international relationships are guided not by rigid alliances but by enduring national interests.
Rising Tariff Tensions
This statement arrives amid growing friction as U.S. President Trump imposes steep 50% tariffs on Indian exports, a move escalating trade war dynamic. The surge in protectionism puts pressure on India’s diplomacy—prompting Singh’s assertion that strategic flexibility matters more than permanent alignments.
“No Permanent Friends or Enemies”: The Core Message
At the summit, he elaborated that in geopolitics, friendships and rivalries are temporary—but interests are constant.
“When a nation moves forward, ideological alignments come and go. But our resolve to protect our people, farmers, and businesses remains unwavering.”
He underscored India’s refusal to label any country as permanent foe—or friend—yet reiterated that safeguarding citizens’ well-being is paramount.
What India Stands For: Self-Reliance & Sovereignty
Singh cautioned that geopolitics now demands self-reliance in defense, rejecting dependence as a luxury India can no longer afford.
He further emphasized that this independence isn’t protectionism but a matter of national sovereignty and survival.
Defense Indigenization: Building a Stronger Future
Highlighting India’s strategic progress:
- Over 3,000 items, previously imported, are now manufactured domestically under the indigenization program.
- The commissioning of warships composed of 75% local design symbolises a leap in marine autonomy.
These achievements reflect how self-reliance extends beyond rhetoric—it’s now India’s lived reality in defense capability.
Strategic Implications: Beyond Friend and Foe
Flexibility in Diplomacy
The mantra no permanent friends or enemies signals India’s commitment to pragmatic diplomacy—adapting to shifting alliances and challenges with dignity and autonomy.
Resilience Amid Pressure
Facing increased tariffs and international friction, India’s steadfast stance demonstrates that external pressures will instead fortify its resolve.
Future-Ready Defense
Indigenization, sovereignty, and self-reliance define India’s roadmap toward strategic autonomy—enabling alliances of convenience, not compulsion.
No permanent friends or enemies isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s India’s navigation tool through turbulence. With firm self-reliance and an unbending focus on its people’s interests, India is steering its strategy with adaptability, dignity, and foresight. Interested in further refining this with AI enhancements or tone adjustments? Just let me know—I’m here to help.
