Can Modi's Government Truly Claim India is a 'Vishwaguru' by Embracing Global Leaders?
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Synopsis
In a bold critique, Mani Shankar Aiyar challenges Modi's foreign policy, highlighting its personal approach and questioning the notion of India's global status. His comments shed light on the need for a comprehensive foreign policy that transcends optics.
Key Takeaways
- Aiyar criticizes Modi's personalized foreign policy approach.
- He emphasizes the importance of using the entire foreign service for diplomacy.
- He questions claims of India's status as 'Vishwaguru' based on optics.
- Aiyar highlights the need for experienced voices in foreign policy.
- He comments on the implications of oil imports from Russia.
New Delhi, Oct 21 (NationPress) Veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy on Tuesday, arguing that it has become dangerously personalized and merely focused on the optics of embracing global leaders.
Aiyar's remarks were triggered by US President Donald Trump's repeated assertions that he personally mediated a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.
"Foreign policy should never be made personal," Aiyar stated during a press conference in Delhi.
When questioned about the ruling BJP-led Union government's claims of significant international achievements, Aiyar responded, stating, "This government's greatest error is presenting diplomacy as a personal success."
"Simply claiming that Prime Minister Modi has hugged the most leaders and forged friendships everywhere does not equate to India being the top nation globally. The entire foreign service should be engaged in fostering relationships—consultation with experienced individuals in foreign policy is essential for the government," Aiyar emphasized.
In light of Trump's ongoing threats regarding tariffs and the current oil imports from Russia, Aiyar noted, "According to my information, state-owned oil companies are no longer procuring from Russia; only private entities are purchasing oil."
When addressing the record-breaking lighting of 26 lakh lamps in Ayodhya during Deepotsav, which the BJP celebrated as a triumph of Sanatan Dharma, Aiyar remarked, "As an atheist, I have no comments to offer."
His remarks, infused with both sarcasm and criticism, underline Aiyar's continued disapproval of the Modi government's foreign policy and the BJP's increasing incorporation of religion into political dialogue.
Point of View
I acknowledge the importance of diplomatic engagement in today's interconnected world. Aiyar's critique sheds light on the need for a balanced approach to foreign policy that emphasizes collaboration over personal branding. The nation's interests must remain paramount, and a collective effort involving experienced voices is essential for effective diplomacy.
NationPress
22/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mani Shankar Aiyar criticize about Modi's foreign policy?
Aiyar criticized Modi's foreign policy for being overly personalized and focused on the optics of hugging global leaders rather than substantive diplomatic achievements.
What was Aiyar's response to Trump's claims?
Aiyar pointed out that Trump's claims of brokering a ceasefire should not overshadow the complexities of foreign relations and emphasized that foreign policy should not be a personal affair.
What does Aiyar suggest regarding India's foreign policy?
Aiyar suggests that India should utilize the entire foreign service to build relationships, rather than relying solely on the Prime Minister's personal connections.
How did Aiyar respond to the lighting of lamps in Ayodhya?
Aiyar, identifying as an atheist, stated he had no comment on the event that the BJP hailed as a victory of Sanatan Dharma.
What are Aiyar's views on oil imports from Russia?
Aiyar mentioned that state-owned oil companies have ceased purchases from Russia, indicating that only private companies are currently buying oil from there.
