India is Open to Dialogue with Pakistan, Only If Terrorism Is Addressed, Says Tharoor

In a significant diplomatic statement, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has emphasized that India is open to dialogue with Pakistan, but only if Islamabad takes concrete action against terrorism. Tharoor, who is leading an all-party parliamentary delegation to Brazil, reiterated that the issue is not about language barriers but about finding a shared vision for peace. His remarks come at a time when tensions between the two nations remain high due to Pakistan’s alleged support for cross-border terrorism.

This statement has sparked discussions among policymakers and analysts, as India has consistently maintained that terrorism remains the biggest hurdle in normalizing relations with Pakistan. With growing international scrutiny on Pakistan’s handling of terror groups, Tharoor’s remarks reinforce India’s firm stance on the issue.

Tharoor’s Stand on India-Pakistan Relations

Speaking at the 11th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, Tharoor stressed that India has no issue with communication but rather with credibility. He pointed out that Pakistan continues to provide safe havens to wanted terrorists, allowing them to operate freely, conduct training camps, and radicalize individuals.

“If Pakistan is as innocent as they claim to be, why do they give safe haven to wanted terrorists? Why are they able to conduct training camps, radicalize people, equip them with arms, and let them practice with Kalashnikovs?” Tharoor questioned.

He further stated that India seeks peace, prosperity, and stability, but not at the cost of overlooking terrorism. He emphasized that Pakistan must dismantle its terror infrastructure before any meaningful dialogue can take place.

Pakistan’s Response and Bilawal Bhutto’s Statement

Interestingly, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has recently expressed willingness to cooperate with India on intelligence-sharing to combat terrorism. Bhutto suggested that if RAW and ISI, the intelligence agencies of both nations worked together, terrorism could be significantly reduced in both countries. However, India remains skeptical, given Pakistan’s history of harboring terror groups.

Tharoor responded to Bhutto’s remarks by highlighting that India’s concern is not dialogue but action. He reiterated that Pakistan’s failure to dismantle terror networks remains the primary obstacle to peace.

The Global Perspective on India’s Stance

Tharoor’s delegation has been actively engaging with Latin American nations, including Guyana, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil, to communicate India’s position on terrorism. He noted that their message was well-received, even by those who previously misunderstood India’s stance.

In a recent diplomatic success, Colombia withdrew a statement offering condolences to Pakistan after understanding Islamabad’s support for cross-border terrorism. This reflects a growing international recognition of India’s concerns regarding terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

The BRICS Parliamentary Forum and India’s Diplomatic Efforts

While addressing the BRICS Parliamentary Forum, Tharoor clarified that India’s primary concern is bilateral relations with Pakistan, rather than international forums. He criticized Pakistan’s failure to dismantle its terrorism infrastructure and reiterated that India will not engage in talks unless Pakistan takes visible action against terror networks.

“We want to be left in peace, to grow and develop. They don’t want to leave us alone. They want to harass us. They want to undermine us,” Tharoor remarked.

India’s Strategic Approach to Terrorism

India has consistently maintained a zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism. In recent years, India has taken decisive military actions against terror camps operating in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Balakot air strikes in 2019 and subsequent counter-terror operations have demonstrated India’s commitment to eliminating threats emanating from across the border.

Additionally, India has strengthened its counter-terrorism partnerships with global allies, including the United States, France, and Israel. These collaborations focus on intelligence-sharing, cybersecurity, and military cooperation to combat terrorism effectively.

Conclusion on Open to Dialogue with Pakistan

Tharoor’s statement underscores India’s firm stance on terrorism and its conditional approach to diplomatic engagement with Pakistan. While India remains open to dialogue, it demands accountability and action from Islamabad. The international community is increasingly recognizing India’s concerns, strengthening its position on the global stage.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the ball is now in Pakistan’s court—will it take decisive action against terrorism, or will the stalemate persist?

Also read – Trump Mediation Claim Collapses: Shashi Tharoor Asserts