Does the Indian Delegation in the US Reinforce Anti-Terrorism Efforts?

Washington, June 5 (NationPress) An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation, led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, is engaged in a series of significant discussions in Washington with senior US Congress members to emphasize India's unwavering position against Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism.

The delegation's agenda includes meetings with the leadership of the Foreign Relations Committee of the US House of Representatives and members of the India Caucus, highlighting a mutual commitment between these two democracies to fight against terrorism in every form.

Under Tharoor's leadership, the team engaged with Republican Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Brian Mast, and Democratic Ranking Member Gregory Meeks, among others.

During their meetings, the delegation also consulted with the leadership of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Meeks expressed, "It was a pleasure to host Chairman Shashi Tharoor & members of the Indian Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs. My colleagues and I conveyed our condolences for the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and reaffirmed Congress's commitment to the US-India partnership."

Throughout these discussions, the delegation updated American lawmakers on the success of Operation Sindoor and how it establishes a "new normal" in India's strategy against cross-border terrorism.

The Indian Embassy stated, "The Parliamentary delegation informed committee members about the success of Operation Sindoor in shaping a new standard in India's combat against cross-border terrorism."

Leadership from the US House Committee condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam without reservation, reiterating the United States' solidarity with India.

"India and the USA stand united in their relentless commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms," the Embassy noted on X.

The Indian parliamentarians also engaged with Congressmen Ro Khanna and Rich McCormick, co-chairs of the House India Caucus, along with Senators Mark Warner and John Cornyn, co-chairs of the Senate India Caucus.

Senator Cornyn shared on X, "Had a productive meeting with the Indian parliamentary delegation regarding the US-India relationship."

Tharoor expressed gratitude for the interactions, stating, "It was great to connect with you and your Senate Foreign Relations Committee colleagues, Senator Rich McCormick! We greatly appreciated you making time for us on a busy day and your expression of solidarity in our fight against terrorism. Your enthusiasm for increased cooperation between our nations across a variety of areas is greatly valued. The potential is limitless!"

Congressman Ro Khanna reaffirmed bipartisan backing for India's anti-terror efforts, stating, "The United States has a bipartisan commitment to the India relationship and stands with India to dismantle these terrorist networks in Pakistan."

Tharoor acknowledged Khanna's support, calling it "terrific" to meet him and expressing gratitude for the robust backing from the India Caucus in the House of Representatives.

Arriving in Washington on Tuesday, the Indian delegation commenced their official engagements on Wednesday, which included meetings with US Congress members and policy leaders, along with a scheduled panel discussion at the National Press Club. The team is also set to conduct a news briefing and later partake in a dinner interaction with the Indian diaspora.

Throughout their two-day visit, the Indian representatives will continue discussions with US Congress members and administration officials, think tanks, media, and pivotal policymakers to present India's strong position on terrorism and highlight the significance of Operation Sindoor.

The Embassy emphasized that the delegation's objective is to foster consensus and enhance strategic cooperation on shared security priorities.

The delegation comprises Shambhavi Choudhary of the Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas, Sarfaraz Ahmad of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Milind Murli Deora of the Shiv Sena, Shashank Mani Tripathi, Bhubaneswar Kalita, Tejasvi Surya of the BJP, and GM Harish Balayogi of the Telugu Desam Party, a key NDA ally.

Former Indian Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, is accompanying the delegation to leverage his diplomatic experience and extensive network in Washington.

In the final phase of their visit, the delegation will persist in engaging influential US lawmakers, officials, and thought leaders to reinforce India's commitment to counterterrorism and fortify bilateral relations.