What Does China's Mediation Claim Mean for India-Pakistan Relations? Congress Raises Alarm!

Congress Questions China's Role in India-Pakistan Mediation

New Delhi: The Congress party expressed serious concerns on Wednesday regarding China's assertion of mediating between India and Pakistan, emphasizing the need for transparency on this matter for the Indian populace.

Jairam Ramesh, the Congress general secretary, urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address these claims, which he believes undermine the nation's security.

Ramesh pointed out that President Trump has repeatedly claimed his involvement in halting Operation Sindoor on numerous occasions across various platforms. He criticized Modi for remaining silent on these assertions made by his so-called ally.

He further noted that the Chinese Foreign Minister echoed similar sentiments, stating that China also played a mediating role. Ramesh recalled that during Operation Sindoor, the Deputy Chief of Army Staff had confirmed that India was engaged in direct confrontation with China.

He expressed alarm over China's claims, which contradict the narrative presented to the Indian public and trivialize national security.

Ramesh highlighted the importance of understanding these claims within the broader context of India's relationship with China, which has recently seen attempts at re-engagement, albeit on terms favorable to China. He criticized Modi's previous concessions to China, which he believes have weakened India's negotiating stance.

He also pointed out the record-high trade deficit with China and the dependency of Indian exports on Chinese imports.

Ramesh remarked on China's ongoing provocative actions concerning Arunachal Pradesh, stressing that amidst such an imbalanced and antagonistic relationship, clarity is essential regarding China's involvement in the sudden cessation of Operation Sindoor.

On Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi mentioned that tensions between India and Pakistan were among several issues China mediated this year.

In contrast, New Delhi has maintained that the conflict from May 7-10 was resolved through direct discussions between the Director Generals of Military Operations from both nations, asserting that third-party intervention is unwelcome in India-Pakistan relations.