India's Focus on Development Amidst Terrorism Threats from Pakistan
India's Diplomatic Message in the Americas
Washington, June 6: The Indian parliamentary delegation, led by Shashi Tharoor, has conveyed a clear message during its tour of the Americas: India prioritizes growth and development, while Pakistan seeks to disrupt this progress through terrorism.
This emphasis on development resonated with leaders across the visited nations, shifting discussions from terrorism to economic collaboration, Tharoor noted during a meeting with think tank representatives.
Tharoor expressed, “There is a significant interest in India, a belief that we are on the right path, and recognition of our restrained and responsible approach to terrorism.” He added, “Overall, it appears we are making positive strides.”
He firmly stated that any terrorist actions from Pakistan aimed at hindering India's development would be met with a strong response. “If they strike, we will retaliate decisively,” he warned.
Tharoor dismissed the nuclear threats from Pakistan as unfounded, referencing Operation Sindoor, which did not escalate to nuclear levels.
Tejasvi Surya highlighted the collaborative efforts between India and the US in combating terrorism, emphasizing its impact on both nations.
Surya cited India's Operation Sindoor, which targeted Jaish-e-Mohamed leader Abdul Rauf Azhar, linking it to the broader fight against terrorism that also concerns the US.
Shashank Mani Tripathi pointed out the importance of democracy in uniting nations with shared values to take a stand against terrorism.
The delegation received positive feedback regarding India's democratic processes, with political parties uniting for this cause.
While there was consensus on India's zero tolerance for terrorism, some interlocutors questioned why India refrains from dialogue with Pakistan. Tharoor clarified that dialogue is impossible under the threat of attacks.
“We are open to discussions, but Pakistan often chooses the language of force, necessitating our response in kind,” he explained.
Tharoor emphasized that there can be no moral equivalence between terrorists and their victims, nor between a state that harbors terrorism and one that defends itself against it. He noted that this perspective was fully understood and agreed upon by all parties involved.
The Tharoor-led delegation is concluding its diplomatic mission across the Americas, advocating against terrorism in the US, Guyana, Colombia, and Panama.
The team includes members from various political backgrounds, such as Shambhavi from the Lok Janshakti Party, Sarfaraz Ahmad from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Milind Murli Deora from the Shiv Sena, Bhubaneswar Kalita from the BJP, and GM Harish Balayogi from the Telugu Desam Party, a partner in the National Democratic Alliance.
During their two-day diplomatic engagement in the US, they met with Vice President JD Vance, members of Congress, media representatives, and the Indian diaspora.