What Did the Indian Delegation Discuss with US Vice President Vance?

Washington, June 5 (NationPress) The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation, headed by Shashi Tharoor, engaged in an "excellent meeting" with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance in Washington. The discussions centered around Operation Sindoor, the terrorism challenges facing India, and the broader aspects of regional security.

According to a post by the Embassy of India in the United States on X, "The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation led by Dr. Shashi Tharoor met with Vice President J.D. Vance this morning. The dialogue emphasized fortifying the India-U.S. partnership, particularly in the realm of counter-terrorism."

Following the meeting, Tharoor expressed on X, "We had a truly productive exchange that encompassed a range of significant issues, from counter-terrorism initiatives to enhancing technological collaboration. This meeting was a crucial step in reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and the United States."

Vice President Vance had previously visited India during the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. He conveyed his support by reaching out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, condemning the attack and offering all necessary assistance in the joint fight against terrorism.

"Usha and I express our heartfelt condolences to the victims of the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Recently, we were struck by the beauty of this nation and its people. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of mourning," he shared on X.

On the same day, Tharoor also had a discussion with Ambassador Ken Juster at the Council on Foreign Relations regarding India’s ongoing battle against terrorism.

The previous day, the delegation connected with key figures from the Indian diaspora in the U.S., discussing India's steadfast approach to combating terrorism and the new normal established by Operation Sindoor. Members of the diaspora expressed their support and solidarity with the victims of terrorism.

Gregory Meeks commented, "It was a pleasure to host Chairman Shashi Tharoor and the Indian Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs. My colleagues and I expressed our condolences for the Pahalgam attack and reaffirmed our commitment to the U.S.-India partnership."

The delegation also engaged with members of the Indian and American Press Corps at the Embassy, sharing insights about Operation Sindoor, terrorism in India, and regional security.

In a press conference on Wednesday, Tharoor shared, "Our objective in every country we visit is to convey our narrative and experiences from the past weeks, seeking solidarity and understanding from those we meet." He noted, "I’m pleased to report that our batting average has been over 100—everyone we’ve met has not only condemned the terrorist attack on India but has also explicitly endorsed India’s right to defend itself against such threats. This understanding has been incredibly encouraging."

Tharoor characterized the Pahalgam terror attack as a shocking disruption during a period of economic and social optimism in Kashmir. "Kashmir was flourishing, with local residents benefiting from an influx of tourists. It was a beautiful moment, only to be marred by a heinous act of violence against innocent visitors," he remarked.

He explained India's measured military response and subsequent ceasefire, stating, "The government's briefings made it clear: we respond because we are being attacked. If they cease, we will too. After 88 hours, the Pakistani Director General of Military Operations contacted his Indian counterpart, leading to a cessation of hostilities."

The delegation comprises a diverse political representation, including Shambhavi Choudhary from the Lok Janshakti Party, Sarfaraz Ahmad from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Milind Murli Deora from the Shiv Sena, Bhubaneswar Kalita and Tejasvi Surya from the BJP, as well as GM Harish Balayogi from the Telugu Desam Party, a partner in the National Democratic Alliance.