Shashi Tharoor Discusses Pakistan’s Role in US-Iran Ceasefire
Celebrating Peace Mediation
Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has emphasized the importance of acknowledging Pakistan’s mediation efforts that contributed to a recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Tharoor stated that such initiatives should be celebrated as they align with India’s own desire for peace. He assessed India’s response to the situation as “mature” and “sensible.”
When questioned about whether Pakistan’s involvement could be a cause for concern, Tharoor stated, “I don’t see why, because honestly, not everything is zero-sum.” He further articulated that the context differs significantly from scenarios where Pakistan is noted for negative actions, such as terrorism directed at India. Instead, he argued that celebratory recognition of Pakistan’s positive role in fostering peace is warranted.
Strategic Restraint and Regional Responsibility
Tharoor acknowledged that the Indian government’s position of welcoming the peace initiative demonstrated a commitment to regional stability. He underscored the need for India to navigate such developments with both strategic restraint and a sense of responsibility. He reminded that India should continue to champion its role as a voice of the global South in international dialogue.
The congressman also referenced comments made by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding a social media post that was perceived to have been influenced by Washington. In this regard, he conjectured that the US might be utilizing Pakistan as a neutral facilitator, allowing both parties to de-escalate tensions without appearing as if they were conceding to one another.
Regional Implications and Diplomatic Interests
Tharoor mentioned the geographical and political relevance of Pakistan, noting its close proximity to Iran through a shared 900-kilometer border. He highlighted that Pakistan has a vested interest in preventing regional conflicts, particularly considering potential implications for refugee flows into its territory. He explained, “Pakistan has what you might call skin in the game,” which could justify its involvement in peace efforts.
The Congress MP, who leads the parliamentary standing committee on external affairs, conveyed that significant shifts are occurring on the global stage. He reiterated the need for India to remain vigilant and engaged, but countered the notion that Islamabad’s actions must be viewed through a lens of competition. Instead, he proposed that India should adopt a stance of support for the peace process, as regional security ultimately benefits Indian interests.
India’s Role in Evolving Global Order
Tharoor expressed concerns over the current state of global governance, noting a “vacuum” in the international order that the United States previously upheld. He remarked that the existing dynamics do not favor a liberal framework and called for India to emerge as a credible participant in shaping a new global order. “It’s not just about survival, it’s about showing some diplomatic initiative for our own growth,” he asserted.
The Congress leader stressed that a competitive or hostile mindset is not beneficial, stating that a “law of the jungle” scenario would leave nations vulnerable to more powerful forces. He concluded by emphasizing the necessity of establishing a new world order that considers the interests of developing countries, positioning India as a leader in this endeavor.
Congress Strategy in Kerala Elections
In the context of the Kerala Assembly elections, Tharoor addressed the campaign’s challenges, particularly the timing of the vote on April 9. He suggested that a longer campaign period might have improved their performance but maintained hope for a change in governance through the United Democratic Front (UDF). “The message is one of change,” he affirmed, pointing towards a promise of a more responsive government for the people of Kerala.
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Contents
Celebrating Peace MediationSenior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has emphasized the importance of acknowledging Pakistan’s mediation efforts that contributed to a recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Tharoor stated that such initiatives should be celebrated as they align with India’s own desire for peace. He assessed India’s response to the situation as “mature” and “sensible.”When questioned about whether Pakistan’s involvement could be a cause for concern, Tharoor stated, “I don’t see why, because honestly, not everything is zero-sum.” He further articulated that the context differs significantly from scenarios where Pakistan is noted for negative actions, such as terrorism directed at India. Instead, he argued that celebratory recognition of Pakistan’s positive role in fostering peace is warranted.Strategic Restraint and Regional ResponsibilityTharoor acknowledged that the Indian government’s position of welcoming the peace initiative demonstrated a commitment to regional stability. He underscored the need for India to navigate such developments with both strategic restraint and a sense of responsibility. He reminded that India should continue to champion its role as a voice of the global South in international dialogue.The congressman also referenced comments made by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding a social media post that was perceived to have been influenced by Washington. In this regard, he conjectured that the US might be utilizing Pakistan as a neutral facilitator, allowing both parties to de-escalate tensions without appearing as if they were conceding to one another.Regional Implications and Diplomatic InterestsTharoor mentioned the geographical and political relevance of Pakistan, noting its close proximity to Iran through a shared 900-kilometer border. He highlighted that Pakistan has a vested interest in preventing regional conflicts, particularly considering potential implications for refugee flows into its territory. He explained, “Pakistan has what you might call skin in the game,” which could justify its involvement in peace efforts.The Congress MP, who leads the parliamentary standing committee on external affairs, conveyed that significant shifts are occurring on the global stage. He reiterated the need for India to remain vigilant and engaged, but countered the notion that Islamabad’s actions must be viewed through a lens of competition. Instead, he proposed that India should adopt a stance of support for the peace process, as regional security ultimately benefits Indian interests.India’s Role in Evolving Global OrderTharoor expressed concerns over the current state of global governance, noting a “vacuum” in the international order that the United States previously upheld. He remarked that the existing dynamics do not favor a liberal framework and called for India to emerge as a credible participant in shaping a new global order. “It’s not just about survival, it’s about showing some diplomatic initiative for our own growth,” he asserted.The Congress leader stressed that a competitive or hostile mindset is not beneficial, stating that a “law of the jungle” scenario would leave nations vulnerable to more powerful forces. He concluded by emphasizing the necessity of establishing a new world order that considers the interests of developing countries, positioning India as a leader in this endeavor.Congress Strategy in Kerala ElectionsIn the context of the Kerala Assembly elections, Tharoor addressed the campaign’s challenges, particularly the timing of the vote on April 9. He suggested that a longer campaign period might have improved their performance but maintained hope for a change in governance through the United Democratic Front (UDF). “The message is one of change,” he affirmed, pointing towards a promise of a more responsive government for the people of Kerala.
