India Can Engage in Dialogue with Pakistan if Significant Action Against Terrorism is Taken, Says Tharoor

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor emphasised that the challenge in engaging with Pakistan lies not in language barriers but in establishing a shared vision for peace. Tharoor stated that India is open to dialogue if Pakistan takes decisive steps against its visible terrorism infrastructure. He is leading an all-party parliamentary delegation to Brazil, where they conveyed India's anti-terrorism stance to Latin American countries.

Tharoor questioned Pakistan's claims of innocence, asking why wanted terrorists find refuge there. He pointed out that these individuals can live freely, conduct training camps, and radicalise others. "You crack down on this infrastructure of terrorism that is visible everywhere in your country. Then, of course, we can talk," he said.

India's Message on Terrorism

The delegation visited Guyana, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil to communicate India's position on terrorism. Tharoor noted that their message was well-received, even by those who previously misunderstood India's stance. He mentioned Colombia's withdrawal of a statement offering condolences to Pakistan after understanding Islamabad's support for cross-border terrorism.

Tharoor highlighted the importance of bilateral relations with Pakistan over international forums. He criticised Pakistan's failure to dismantle its terrorism infrastructure. "Our preoccupation is honestly our bilateral relation to Pakistan and Pakistan’s complete failure to dismantle the infrastructure of terrorism in their country," he said.

Meetings and Discussions in Brazil

The delegation concluded their visit with a meeting with Brazil Vice President Geraldo Alckmin. The Indian Embassy in Brazil posted on X about the meeting, noting Brazil's firm stand against terrorism and the emphasis on strengthening bilateral ties in various sectors.

Tharoor expressed satisfaction with their meetings in Brazil, which included discussions with Senator Nelsinho Trad and the new Indian Ambassador to Brazil, Dinesh Bhatia. He appreciated the strong endorsement of India's perspective on recent events by Brazilian officials.

Upcoming Visit to Washington DC

The delegation will next head to Washington DC. Tharoor anticipates a challenging visit due to diverse audiences and potentially difficult questions. "Judging by some of the information floating around, flying around, we get some interesting and perhaps challenging questions, which we will be very happy to answer," he added.

During their time in Brazil, the delegation also met academic couples who have promoted Indian culture for decades. Tharoor expressed disbelief at learning there are only five Indian families among Brasilia's 4 million residents.

The delegation also met Amb Celso Amorim, Head Adviser of the Special Advisory to the President of Brazil, discussing India's zero-tolerance stance on terrorism. This visit aimed to strengthen understanding and solidarity between India and Brazil regarding global security issues.

With inputs from PTI