Has Congress Chosen Salman Khurshid as Foreign Affairs Chief?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal restructuring, Congress has appointed Salman Khurshid as the head of its Foreign Affairs Department, marking a significant shift in leadership. This move follows Anand Sharma's resignation aimed at integrating younger talents, signaling a new era for the party's foreign policy approach.
Key Takeaways
- Salman Khurshid appointed as Chairman of Foreign Affairs Department.
- Brijendra Singh and Arathi Krishna named Vice-Chairpersons.
- Transition aims to integrate younger leaders.
- Sharma's resignation paves the way for departmental restructuring.
- Focus on enhancing Congress's foreign policy engagement.
New Delhi, Aug 20 (NationPress) In a significant organizational shift, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has appointed esteemed leader and former Union Minister Salman Khurshid as the new Chairman of the party’s Foreign Affairs Department. This change follows the recent resignation of veteran leader Anand Sharma, who stepped down to allow for a restructuring of the department aimed at incorporating younger leaders.
In addition to Khurshid's new role, the party has also designated Brijendra Singh and Arathi Krishna as Vice-Chairpersons of the department. This announcement was made via an official statement by Congress General Secretary, Organisation, K.C. Venugopal, who acknowledged Sharma’s contributions during his tenure.
The Congress leadership had anticipated a revamp of the department as part of wider initiatives to refresh its organizational framework. Sharma, who previously held several prominent roles in past UPA governments, has led the Foreign Affairs Department since its last reorganization.
On August 10, Sharma submitted his resignation in a letter directed to the Congress President and the Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party. He expressed, "In my considered view, the Committee needs to be reconstituted to bring in younger leaders of potential and promise. That will ensure continuity in its functioning." He further conveyed his gratitude towards the party leadership for the trust placed in him.
Khurshid, stepping into this crucial role, is a veteran politician with a wealth of experience in governance and diplomacy. He has previously managed several key portfolios, including Corporate Affairs, Water Resources, Minority Affairs, Law & Justice, and notably, External Affairs during the UPA era. His appointment signals Congress's intention to enhance its foreign policy dialogue.
His deputies are Brijendra Singh, a former IAS officer and ex-Member of Parliament from Hisar, and Arathi Krishna, who currently serves as Deputy Chairman of the NRI Forum in Karnataka.
The reconstitution of the Foreign Affairs Department is part of an ongoing internal reform process within Congress as it gears up for forthcoming political challenges. The goal of including both experienced and emerging leaders is to maintain a balance between institutional continuity and generational transition within the party’s policy-making framework, according to party insiders.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of Congress's recent leadership changes. The appointment of Salman Khurshid reflects a blend of experience and a shift toward engaging younger leaders, embodying a necessary evolution within the party. This strategic realignment is essential as Congress navigates the complexities of modern politics and seeks to strengthen its foreign policy narrative.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Salman Khurshid?
Salman Khurshid is a senior Congress leader and former Union Minister with extensive experience in governance and diplomacy, having held key portfolios like External Affairs.
What is the significance of Khurshid's appointment?
Khurshid's appointment as Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Department signifies Congress's intent to strengthen its foreign policy discourse while integrating younger leadership.
Why did Anand Sharma resign?
Anand Sharma resigned to facilitate the reconstitution of the Foreign Affairs Department and to make way for younger leaders within the party.
Who are the deputies appointed alongside Khurshid?
The deputies appointed are Brijendra Singh, a former IAS officer and Member of Parliament, and Arathi Krishna, the Deputy Chairman of the NRI Forum in Karnataka.
What does this reconstitution mean for Congress?
This reconstitution is part of an internal reform process aimed at revitalizing the party's organizational structure and preparing for future political challenges.
