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Politics Now

The Day When Imran Khan Praised India’s ‘Free & Independent’ Foreign Policy

Source: Al Jazeera/Foreign Policy

In a notable commentary back in 2022, shortly after his removal from office, Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan commended India’s foreign policy, contrasting it with Pakistan’s perceived subservience to Western powers.

If India can, why can’t Pakistan?

Imran Khan, the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), made these remarks during a virtual address for his ‘long march’ where he extolled India’s ability to make independent decisions in its foreign affairs. Highlighting India’s then purchase of oil from Russia amidst the Ukraine war, Khan emphasized the country’s autonomy in shaping its foreign policy.

Source: The Japan Times
Source: The Japan Times

He further praised India’s stance, noting its willingness to prioritize national interests over external pressure, particularly from Western allies. Despite being part of the QUAD alliance with the United States, India’s decision to procure Russian oil underscored its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens.

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Imran Khan’s remarks underscored a perception of Pakistan’s foreign policy as being constrained by external influences, in contrast to India’s perceived assertiveness and autonomy. The admiration for India’s foreign policy stance reflected Pakistan’s diplomatic challenges and aspirations for greater independence in decision-making on the global stage.

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