Following a diplomatic initiative by an Indian delegation led by Shashi Tharoor, Colombia retracted its statement supporting Pakistan and assured India of its support in the fight against terrorism.
New Delhi: India has once again demonstrated its diplomatic prowess, securing a significant victory on the global stage. The Colombian government reversed its earlier statement and declared its support for India in the fight against terrorism. This success is attributed to the impactful efforts of an Indian all-party delegation, which met with government and opposition leaders in Bogota, Colombia, bly advocating India's position.
India's Diplomatic Influence in Bogota
The Indian all-party delegation, led by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, visited Bogota. The delegation met with the Colombian government, opposition parties, and other key leaders. Tharoor explained India's stance on terrorism, detailing India's struggle with cross-border terrorism and the reasons behind its retaliatory actions following the recent Pulwama terror attack.
Tharoor expressed disappointment at Colombia's initial response, which expressed condolences for those killed in Pakistan following India's action against terrorist bases there, but showed no sympathy for victims of terrorism in India.
Colombia's Changed Stance Following Tharoor's Concerns
After listening to the Indian delegation's clear and factual arguments, Colombia altered its stance. Colombian Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio, stated that they now fully understand India's actions and perspective on the issue. She said that following the explanation provided by India, Colombia retracts its previous statement and supports India's fight against terrorism.
India's Clear Policy Regarding Pakistan
India has consistently highlighted Pakistan's sponsorship of terrorism on the global stage. During the discussions with Colombia, the Indian delegation explained how Pakistan continues to provide sanctuary and support to terrorists. India also made it clear that a 'zero-tolerance' policy towards terrorism will be adopted.
BJP leader and former ambassador, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, explained that during discussions with Colombia's acting foreign minister, India provided a detailed timeline and account of events, clarifying Colombia's understanding. Sandhu stated, "Colombia has now pledged support for India on terrorism, which will be even more crucial in the coming days as Colombia is soon to become a member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)."
A United India Against Terrorism
BJP MP Tejasvi Surya, a member of the delegation, added that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India will intensify its fight against terrorism. Surya stated, "It was extremely disheartening that Colombia expressed condolences for the deaths in Pakistan but didn't utter a word for the victims of terrorism in India. The situation is now clear."
Remembering Gandhi's Ideals
The delegation paid tribute at a statue of Mahatma Gandhi located at a university in Bogota. Shashi Tharoor stated, "Gandhiji gave us the message of non-violence, peace, and fearlessness. India will stand firm in combating terrorism and convey to the world that terrorism will not be tolerated."
Significance of the Meeting with Colombia
The delegation also met with former Colombian President Cesar Gaviria, the head of the Liberal Party. Gaviria supported India's fight against terrorism and assured his continued support for India.
