In a coordinated diplomatic effort to reinforce India’s stance against terrorism, an all-party parliamentary delegation has been actively engaging with political leaders and officials across multiple countries. This extensive outreach underscores India’s commitment to a unified, zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and aims to garner international support in combating cross-border threats. The delegation’s journey spans continents, from Africa and Europe to Southeast Asia, reflecting the global dimensions of India’s anti-terrorism policy. The delegation aims to brief international partners on India’s response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and its broader fight against cross-border terrorism while engaging with leaders worldwide.
Talks in South Africa
The delegation, led by NCPSCP MP Supriya Sule, met with key figures in South Africa’s parliament, including the Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), P (Les) Govender. The delegation explained the background of recent terrorist incidents in India, including the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, emphasizing the urgency of global cooperation to curb terrorism. India’s High Commission in Pretoria noted that the discussions conveyed India’s “united message of zero tolerance” towards terrorism, reflecting the country’s resolve to secure its citizens and maintain regional peace.
Diplomatic Outreach in Europe
Continuing their European tour, the delegation arrived in Italy, led by BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad, where they engaged with Giulio Tremonti, President of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and European Commission of Italy’s Chamber of Deputies, and Stefania Craxi, President of the Senate’s Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee. The talks focused on updating Italy on India’s response to the Pahalgam terror attack and strengthening bilateral cooperation in counterterrorism efforts.Prior to Italy, the delegation’s visit to France had already reinforced India’s firm stance against terrorism among French parliamentarians and officials, underscoring the shared global commitment to security.Meanwhile, in Athens, the delegation led by DMK MP Kanimozhi engaged with the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP) and Greece’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tasos Chatzivasileiou. The discussions emphasized India’s proactive policy of zero tolerance for terrorism and the importance of international peace and security. Indian Ambassador to Greece Rudrendra Tandon and former Indian Ambassador to the EU Manjeev Singh Puri highlighted broad European support for India’s anti-terrorism efforts, with Russia and Slovenia also voicing backing against terrorism.
Southeast Asia and Caribbean
In Jakarta, the delegation led by JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha met Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Arief Havas Oegroseno, and parliamentary leaders to discuss India’s antiterrorism initiatives and reinforce bilateral cooperation. The delegation, which included members from BJP, TMC, CPI-M, and Congress, shared detailed insights into India’s zero-tolerance stance and ongoing counterterrorism operations. Across the Atlantic in Guyana, led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, the delegation was met with unequivocal support from the Indian diaspora and Guyanese leadership.
The President of Guyana, Mohamed Irfaan Ali, condemned terrorism and reaffirmed his country’s solidarity with India. The Indian High Commission in Guyana highlighted the strong bonds within the diaspora community, which echoed India’s unified political front against terrorism.
Engagement in Saudi Arabia
The delegation led by BJP MP Baijayant Panda arrived in Riyadh to further strengthen India-Saudi Arabia ties and explore joint counterterrorism cooperation. The warm reception by Maj. Gen. Abdulrahman Alharbi, Chair of the India-Saudi Arabia Council Friendship Committee, signals growing strategic alignment between the two nations. Panda emphasized India’s resolute and uncompromising stand on terrorism and the importance of international partnerships.
Solidarity Against Terrorism
The delegation members have been vocal in condemning terrorism and calling out Pakistan’s role in sponsoring terror activities. MJ Akbar, former Union Minister of State for External Affairs and a member of the delegation, sharply criticized Pakistan’s long history of promoting terrorism, noting that state-sponsored terrorism originated there after World War II. He recalled how Pakistan sent thousands of terrorists to Kashmir in 1947 and lamented the country’s failure to take action against terrorists despite India’s repeated warnings. Similarly, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Manan Kumar Mishra highlighted India’s Operation Sindoor, launched after Pakistan failed to act against terrorists following the Pahalgam attack. Mishra pointed out that Indian forces took decisive action on May 7, destroying terrorist bases and preventing further attacks.
Firm Resolve from Indian MPs
In Panama, JMM MP Sarfaraz Ahmad, addressing the Indian diaspora, reinforced India’s determination to respond decisively to terrorism, stating India would “not listen to anyone” when it comes to defending its national security. Ahmad praised India’s unified political front and emphasized targeted anti-terror operations as critical to the country’s safety.
Way Ahead
India’s all-party delegation’s global outreach reflects a concerted effort to unite the international community in fighting terrorism, especially cross-border threats linked to Pakistan. By engaging lawmakers, foreign ministers, think tanks, and diaspora communities, India seeks to strengthen partnerships, share intelligence, and coordinate counterterrorism strategies. This multi-nation dialogue underscores India’s commitment to zero tolerance for terrorism, protecting its citizens, and contributing to global peace and security. The delegation’s efforts showcase India’s diplomatic resolve and its growing leadership role on the international stage in combating terrorism.
