NEW DELHI, April 11: Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, speaking during the US–Iran peace talks held in Islamabad, said India is not in competition with Pakistan over mediation efforts and stressed that peace is more important than who facilitates it.
He said that even if Pakistan plays a peacemaking role in a particular situation, it does not erase its past record, though India’s focus should remain on regional stability and constructive engagement.
Tharoor noted that Pakistan has “skin in the game” due to its 900-km border with Iran and its large Shia population, meaning any escalation in the region would directly affect it.
He added that India must closely monitor developments, stay engaged diplomatically, and contribute to efforts that promote stability as a responsible regional and global stakeholder.
He further said that while India cannot remain passive when instability rises in its neighbourhood, its role should be carefully calibrated, and sometimes silence may also be a useful diplomatic tool.
Commenting on a social media post by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Tharoor suggested it may have been influenced externally, pointing to traces of “draft” text in its editing history.
Reiterating his position, he said Pakistan would only be seen as a genuine peacemaker if it dismantles terror infrastructure and takes action against extremist elements operating from its territory. His remarks came as US and Iranian delegations held high-level talks in Islamabad amid efforts to reduce tensions in West Asia. (PTI)
