The reception accorded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Shanghai Summit, amid the ongoing US tariff war, drew global attention. During this period, the Congress party had launched an attack on the central government, notably by raking up the Galwan issue. However, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor took a position that starkly contrasted with his party’s stance. Tharoor welcomed the India-China diplomatic talks, describing the central government’s decision as an essential step under the prevailing circumstances.
He further observed that resolving differences with China would enable India to withstand mounting pressure from the United States. Tharoor also expressed support for India’s robust ties with Russia, underlining the strategic importance of maintaining strong relations with major global powers. His remarks assume significance as they come at a time when the Congress has repeatedly criticised the government’s outreach to China. According to Tharoor, fostering good relations with countries like Russia and China is crucial to safeguarding India’s national interests.
Earlier, the Congress party had mocked Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Congress communications chief Jairam Ramesh accused Modi of “bowing down like a coward” before the Chinese leader and remaining silent on the Pakistan-China corridor, which he termed the “jugular vein.”
Following Modi’s meetings with Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, US President Donald Trump lashed out at India’s trade practices. Posting on Truth Social, Trump described trade with India as a “one-sided disaster,” alleging that while the United States had very limited trade with India, India enjoyed significant trade with the US. His remarks came amid growing criticism over the deterioration of India-US relations.
Meanwhile, several Democrats on the US House Foreign Affairs Committee criticised Trump’s tariff policy toward India. They argued that the threat of imposing tariffs was isolating India, damaging American economic interests, and jeopardising a bilateral relationship nurtured over two decades.
Tharoor’s remarks once again highlight his willingness to break ranks with the Congress on matters of foreign policy. By endorsing the government’s diplomatic outreach to China and Russia, he has effectively distanced himself from the party’s combative stance, signalling a pragmatic approach that prioritises national interest over partisan positions.
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