India Hits Out at NATO on 'Double Standards'

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warns India, others of secondary sanctions for business with Russia

- TDG NETWORK

In a firm response to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's threat of secondary sanctions over New Delhi's ties with Moscow, India on Thursday cautioned against "double standards" on the matter and asserted that its energy procurement from Russia is based on national interests and market dynamics.

Rutte had warned India, China and Brazil that they could be hit hard by secondary sanctions if they continue to do business with Russia.

"We have seen reports on the subject and are closely following the developments. Let me reiterate that securing energy needs of our people is understandably an overriding priority for us," external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at his weekly media briefing.

"In this endeavor, we are guided by what is on offer in the markets, and by the prevailing global circumstances. We would particularly caution against any double standards on the matter," he said.