Senior Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, leading an all-party delegation to the United States as part of India’s diplomatic outreach following Operation Sindoor, has publicly refuted former U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that trade pressure from Washington prevented a nuclear confrontation between India and Pakistan.
Speaking in Washington, Tharoor stated, “India does not need to be persuaded to avoid war. We have always prioritised peace and development. If any persuasion was necessary, it was directed at Pakistan.” His remarks came in response to Trump’s claim that U.S. trade leverage was instrumental in halting the escalation between the two South Asian neighbours.
Trump had previously claimed that his administration’s trade policies played a pivotal role in de-escalating tensions, suggesting that economic pressure was applied to both countries to prevent further conflict. However, Indian officials have consistently maintained that the resolution was achieved through direct diplomatic and military channels, without external intervention.
Tharoor’s delegation, which includes members from various political parties, has been engaging with U.S. lawmakers, policy experts, and think tanks to present India’s perspective on regional security and counter-terrorism efforts. The delegation’s mission is to highlight India’s stance against terrorism and to counter narratives that may misrepresent the country’s actions and intentions.
The Indian government’s position is that Operation Sindoor, a coordinated military and diplomatic initiative, was the primary factor in compelling Pakistan to cease hostilities. Officials argue that India’s firm response and strategic clarity were crucial in de-escalating the situation.
Tharoor’s statements have garnered attention both domestically and internationally, as they underscore a unified Indian stance on the matter, transcending party lines. Despite internal political differences, there appears to be consensus on rejecting external claims that undermine India’s agency in managing its security affairs.
The all-party delegation’s visit to the U.S. is part of a broader diplomatic effort to reinforce India’s narrative on the global stage. By engaging directly with international stakeholders, India aims to assert its position and counter any misconceptions regarding its role in regional stability.
As the delegation continues its engagements in Washington, the emphasis remains on presenting a cohesive and assertive Indian perspective, particularly in light of statements from foreign leaders that may not align with India’s understanding of events.
The Indian government has reiterated its commitment to peaceful resolution of conflicts and has emphasized that its actions are guided by national interest and regional stability. The delegation’s activities in the U.S. are seen as a continuation of this commitment, aiming to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.
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