Shashi Tharoor: Diplomacy Isn't About Public Disclosures
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, Shashi Tharoor defended PM Modi regarding the deportation of Indian nationals from the U.S., emphasizing that diplomacy doesn't require public declarations. He acknowledged the need for political leaders to appreciate good work, regardless of party lines.
Key Takeaways
- Shashi Tharoor defends PM Modi on diplomatic approach.
- Emphasizes that diplomacy need not involve public discussions.
- Commends Kerala's progress in business and startups.
- Critiques from his party for straying from party lines.
- Stresses the need to appreciate good governance regardless of political affiliation.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 15 (NationPress) In response to the deportation of Indian citizens from the United States, former diplomat and prominent Congress figure Shashi Tharoor came to the defense of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, asserting that diplomacy does not necessitate making all discussions public.
“Diplomacy is not about disclosing everything publicly. There are alternative ways to communicate. It's unclear whether the issue of the deportation of Indians was addressed through other channels. We will await a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs. The details of what transpired will eventually be shared through appropriate channels,” stated the former diplomat after journalists pointed out that Prime Minister Modi remained silent regarding the deportation of Indian nationals from the United States.
Previously, the Congress MP also commended PM Modi for securing a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and expressed admiration for the Pinarayi Vijayan-led Left government in Kerala, which drew criticism from his own party.
“It is my consistent practice to acknowledge commendable efforts by any politician or government. I have always recognized good work, whether from the Centre or the state. When they perform well, I commend them; when they falter, I voice my criticism,” remarked the Congress MP.
Regarding PM Modi's interaction with President Trump, Tharoor noted, “PM Modi’s engagement with President Trump is a significant achievement for India. Numerous leaders are eager to meet him (Trump). However, it was PM Modi who secured the meeting due to our homeland, India.”
Earlier, Kerala's Leader of the Opposition, V.D. Satheesan, criticized Tharoor for allegedly “straying” from the party’s stance.
On the previous day, Tharoor reportedly lauded the Kerala government in an article for an English publication. However, Tharoor clarified that he was not praising the government but referencing a global report in the article.
“I discussed the start-ups in Kerala but cited a global report, not one from the CPI-M. Kerala is excelling in terms of ease of doing business, as reflected in national rankings. The state has significantly progressed over the last two years. In my article, I emphasized that for the benefit of the people, we should set aside politics. This applies to all opposition parties, as those currently in power may find themselves in opposition in the future and should avoid obstructive behavior. I have clearly articulated this,” stated the former diplomat.
In his article, Tharoor pointed out that Kerala has adopted a new industrial policy aimed at fostering knowledge-based industries, including AI, blockchain technology, and machine learning.
He elaborated that under the state’s ‘Year of Enterprises’ initiative, over 290,000 MSMEs have been established, with substantial investments and support for women and transgender entrepreneurs.
“I had previously remarked that ‘God’s own country’ had become the devil’s own playground for business. If that perception is changing, we all have cause to celebrate,” wrote Tharoor.
However, Kerala’s Leader of the Opposition, Satheesan, expressed skepticism regarding the figures cited by Tharoor in his article. “I am unsure where Tharoor obtained these statistics concerning MSME growth in Kerala. Many returnees from the Kerala diaspora start small businesses, but how can these be counted in the MSME statistics?” questioned LoP Satheesan.
In light of his praise for the Kerala government, Tharoor clarified that he is not the spokesperson for Congress and has always shared his opinions. “Anyone wishing to speak with the party’s high command is welcome to do so,” he emphasized.
