A day after India received somewhat unlikely praise for its “independent foreign policy” from Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Indian Foreign Secretary said New Delhi’s foreign policy has received praise at the global level and added that quoting just one person - a reference to Khan - would be wrong. He refused to openly acknowledge the Pakistani prime minister's gratuitous approbation.

On Sunday Khan, known for frequently taking potshots at India, praised India for the latter's “independent foreign policy” for the “betterment” of its people while citing New Delhi’s participation in Quad grouping as well its intention to buy Russian oil despite Western sanctions on Moscow while keeping its status as a neutral country.

“I praise our neighboring country as they always had an independent foreign policy. Today India is in their (America) alliance and they are part of Quad; they say they are neutral. They are importing oil from Russia despite sanctions because their policy is for the betterment of people," Khan said in a rally in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. 

Reacting to his comment, Indian Foreign Secretary Shringla said, “To say that one person [praise our foreign policy] would be wrong. We have received praise across the world for many of our foreign policy initiative at the level of the PM. I think our record speaks for itself.”

The timing of the remark about India is also significant. It comes at a time when Khan’s grip on power seems to be faltering, primarily due to the discontent in his party and the ruling alliance. He is facing a no-confidence motion moved by opposition parties.

Facing a near-certain defection by almost three dozen of its lawmakers, and crucial allies, Khan’s government, which is seemingly out of favor from the powerful military, approached the Supreme Court, seeking a tough judicial interpretation of anti-defection laws. 

After praising India’s independent foreign policy, Khan said, "I haven’t bowed before anyone and will not let my nation bow either,” adding the country would have gained nothing from ceding the EU’s request to condemn Russia’s actions in Ukraine, which the EU ambassadors in Islamabad had collectively demanded.

He said his government’s foreign policy would always be in the favor of the people of Pakistan.

[SAM]