Colombia has retracted a previously issued statement favoring Pakistan after talks with an Indian delegation, which was led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor. The change reflects Colombia’s improved understanding of India’s position on terrorism, following expressions of disappointment from Indian officials regarding past condolences for Pakistani casualties. The discussions signify India’s efforts in global outreach against terrorism as the delegation prepares to continue to Brazil and the U.S.
In a noteworthy development in international relations, Colombia has retracted a previous statement that favored Pakistan following discussions with an Indian delegation. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, who is heading an all-party team on a visit to the Americas, relayed the news at a press conference in Bogotá. Tharoor expressed satisfaction at Colombia’s decision to now issue a statement supporting India’s stance on terrorism, a shift that reflects a deeper understanding of the situation.
Tharoor mentioned his disappointment with Colombia’s earlier condolences for casualties in Pakistan after Indian military actions. He emphasized, “We were a little disappointed in the reaction of the Colombian government… rather than sympathising with the victims of terrorism.” The MP highlighted the critical need for Colombia to realize the distinction between nations that harbor terrorists and those that fight against them, stating that India was merely exercising its right to self-defense.
Former Indian Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu indicated that the Indian delegation’s thorough explanation during their interaction with Colombia’s acting Foreign Minister was crucial in swaying the Colombian government. Sandhu noted, “They have made specific points explaining the timeline which perhaps to an extent they might have missed out. The end result was that they are withdrawing one of the other statements.”
BJP MP Shashank Madded expressed optimism about Colombia’s evolving perspective, noting that the country has faced its own battles against terrorism. He asserted, “It is notable that terrorism has affected Colombia as well…. We want nothing but peace.”
The successful dialogue signifies India’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism on a global scale and to clarify any misconceptions regarding its military responses. Tharoor confirmed that after Bogotá, the delegation is set to visit Brazil and the United States, aiming to further strengthen international alliances against terror. In conclusion, the steps taken by Colombia may not only influence their bilateral relationship with India but could set a precedent for global support against terrorism.
Colombia’s recent decision to withdraw a statement sympathetic to Pakistan marks a significant diplomatic achievement for India, as emphasized by Shashi Tharoor and other Indian officials. This development illustrates India’s commitment to clarifying its stance on terrorism internationally and reinforcing valuable alliances. The Indian delegation’s conversations clearly facilitated this shift, likely fostering a more robust understanding and future cooperation with Colombia and other nations in the region.
Original Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com
