In the wake of "Operation Sindoor," India has launched a significant diplomatic initiative, sending seven all-party delegations to 32 countries and the European Union headquarters in Brussels. This extensive outreach program, commencing today, aims to present India's united stance against terrorism and garner international support for its counter-terrorism efforts, particularly in the context of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan.
The delegations comprise 59 members, including Members of Parliament (MPs), former ministers, and seasoned diplomats, representing a broad spectrum of political parties. This all-inclusive approach underscores the national consensus on the issue of terrorism and India's commitment to addressing it through both military and diplomatic channels.
The composition of the delegations reflects a careful consideration of regional and political representation. Senior leaders such as Shashi Tharoor (Congress), Ravi Shankar Prasad (BJP), Sanjay Kumar Jha (JDU), Kanimozhi Karunanidhi (DMK), Supriya Sule (NCP-SP), and Shrikant Eknath Shinde (Shiv Sena) are leading these groups, ensuring that India's message is conveyed effectively across various global platforms.
These delegations are tasked with engaging with key global partners, including member states of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). They will present India's perspective on critical issues such as Kashmir, counter-terrorism, and the rationale behind "Operation Sindoor." The Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, has briefed the delegations on the standard operating procedures and the key points to be emphasized during their international visits. The briefings also covered how to effectively counter the narrative presented by Pakistan and highlight its alleged role in fostering cross-border terrorism.
Each delegation has been assigned specific regions and countries to visit, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the globe. Baijayant Panda is leading the delegation visiting Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Algeria while Ravi Shankar Prasad is leading the delegation to France, Italy, Denmark, and the United Kingdom. Sanjay Jha is leading the delegation to Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea and Singapore. Shrikant Eknath Shinde is leading the delegation to UAE, Liberia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sierra Leone. Shashi Tharoor is leading the delegation to the United States. Kanimozhi Karunanidhi is leading the delegation to Spain, Greece, Slovenia, Latvia, and Russia. Supriya Sule is leading the delegation to Egypt, Qatar, Ethiopia, and South Africa.
The initiative has been coordinated by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju. The BJP has 31 leaders, and the other parties have 20 leaders, along with eight former ambassadors, have been included in the seven delegations.
"Operation Sindoor," which involved targeted military actions against terrorist camps across the border in Pakistan, has been described as a turning point in India's counter-terrorism strategy. The current diplomatic outreach is intended to complement these military actions by building international pressure on Pakistan to cease its alleged support for terrorist activities.
