In a significant development bolstering India's stance against terrorism, US Vice President JD Vance has expressed his unwavering support for India's fight against this global menace. This declaration came during a meeting in Washington D.C. with an all-party Indian delegation, which included BJP MP Tejasvi Surya and was led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor.
Tejasvi Surya characterized the meeting with Vice President Vance as "fantastic," emphasizing the US Vice President's resolute support for the Indian government's counter-terrorism initiatives. The discussions centered on strengthening the already robust ties between India and the United States, with a particular focus on enhanced cooperation in the realm of counter-terrorism.
Vice President Vance's strong support for India is noteworthy considering his personal experience with the impact of terrorism in India. He was present in India during the harrowing Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22nd. Sources indicate that Vance and his family had met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi the day before the attack. The US Vice President reportedly contacted Modi to convey his condolences following the tragic event.
Reflecting on the Pahalgam attack, Vice President Vance had expressed his condolences, stating, "Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Over the past few days, we have been overcome with the beauty of this country and its people. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack."
Furthermore, reports suggest that Vance had also shared critical intelligence with Prime Minister Modi on May 9th, indicating a high probability of escalation in the conflict with Pakistan. This highlights the commitment of the US administration to assist India in safeguarding its national security.
During the meeting between the Indian delegation and US representatives, members of the House Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans in the 119th Congress, including Co-Chairs Rep. Ro Khanna and Rep. Rich McCormick, and Vice Co-Chairs Rep. Andy Barr and Rep. Marc Veasey, unequivocally condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam. They also voiced their support for India's right to respond to terrorism with a zero-tolerance policy. Moreover, the Caucus members lauded the strong strategic partnership between India and the USA.
The Indian delegation, which included MPs Sarfaraz Ahmad, Ganti Harish Madhur Balayogi, Shashank Mani Tripathi, Bhubaneswar Kalita, Milind Deora, and Tejasvi Surya, had embarked on a multi-nation tour before arriving in Washington D.C. Their journey included visits to Guyana, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil.
The delegation also presented India's perspective on the "Operation Sindoor" precision strikes. Shashi Tharoor explained the symbolic significance of the operation's name.
Vice President Vance's firm support and the strong condemnation of the Pahalgam attack by US Congressmen signal a deepening of cooperation between the two nations in combating terrorism. This united front against terrorism is a welcome development and promises to strengthen global efforts to eradicate this menace.