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Madhukar Chaturvedi

Agra April 6, 2026 India has emerged as a confident, self-assured and key global player, making independent choices rooted firmly in its national interest. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has deepened its direct engagement with world leaders, sharing its experiences while navigating global challenges with a pragmatic and steady approach. At the time when West Asia faces the strains of ongoing conflict and uncertainty, India’s balanced stance is increasingly being viewed as a source of stability and constructive influence.

This perspective was shared by Iveta Radicova, the first woman to serve as Slovakia’s Prime Minister, during her ongoing visit to India. Speaking to Madhukar Chaturvedi of Swadesh on the sidelines of her Agra tour on Sunday, Radicova expressed deep appreciation for India’s foreign and strategic outlook. She noted that the nation today exudes strength, confidence, and a growing sense of global responsibility.

Iveta Radicovalauded thePM Modi for his sincerity and a deep sense of purpose. She observed that wherever Modi travels, he carries the essence of India’s culture with him, meeting people with humility and respect.Reflecting on India’s growing role, she said the country today stands firm and confident, with the capacity to contribute meaningfully to global peace. Drawing a connection between India and Europe, Radicova highlighted the shared values and traditions that bind them, underscoring a common commitment: “We are working for the people.”

India–European Union Ties Poised for a New Chapter

Iveta Radicova expressed optimism and described the proposed Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Union as a “historic” step. She noted that it will bring the two sides closer than ever before. The agreement is not merely about trade, but about deepening a partnership built on shared aspirations and mutual trust.Radicova underlined that cooperation between India and the EU is set to grow steadily across key areas such as trade, technology, green energy, connectivity, defence, space, mobility, education, and people-to-people exchanges—sectors that directly touch lives and shape future opportunities.She also pointed out that EU deal with India expected to come into force by early 2027 is a milestone. The pact will open new avenues for trade in goods, services, and investment, further strengthening the bond between the people and economies of both regions.

India Deserves Permanent Membership in the UNSC

Iveta Radicovaexpressed a strong belief that India deserves a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council, not just as a matter of representation, but as a reflection of its growing role in promoting peace and offering direction in uncertain times.She noted that while the current structure—dominated by nations like the United States, China, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom—continues to shape critical global decisions, it no longer fully reflects today’s realities.Radicova emphasized that India has consistently advocated for reform and demonstrated the responsibility, capability, and commitment needed to take on a permanent role. In her view, giving India a seat at the table would not only acknowledge its stature but also strengthen the collective voice for peace and balance in the world.

Trump and Putin Blamed for Escalation and Energy Turmoil

Iveta Radicova voiced concern that even weeks after it began, the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel shows little sign of easing, continuing to cast a shadow over regional stability and global energy security.She held Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin responsible for the broader crisis, arguing that the roots of the current turmoil can be traced back to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. According to Radicova, this move not only intensified geopolitical tensions but also set off ripple effects that are being felt across continents.She further remarked that Vladimir Putin aims to weaken the European Union, and suggested that, in certain respects, the strategic positions of the United States and Russia appear to converge—adding another layer of complexity to an already fragile global landscape.

Beyond Conflict: A Call for Peace and Sustainable Energy

Iveta Radicova reflected on the deep strain the ongoing conflict has placed on the global economy, stressing that the first and most urgent step must be to bring the violence to an end. Only then, she said, can the world collectively turn its attention to securing a more stable and sustainable energy future.She pointed to the fragile situation in the Strait of Hormuz, where safe passage has become increasingly uncertain, affecting nations far beyond the immediate region.At its core, Radicova described the conflict as a struggle over oil—one that continues to shape geopolitical tensions. With a sense of urgency, she underscored the need to look beyond traditional energy sources, emphasizing that investing in alternatives is not just an economic necessity, but a pathway to preventing future conflicts and ensuring a more peaceful, balanced world.