Diplomacy – Congress Criticizes Modi Over US Praise for Pakistan
Diplomacy – The Congress party on Saturday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi after US President Donald Trump publicly praised Pakistan while tensions between Islamabad and Kabul continue to rise. The opposition said the remarks reflect a serious setback for India’s diplomatic outreach, particularly its efforts to strengthen ties with Washington.
Congress Questions Diplomatic Strategy
Congress general secretary in charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh, said Trump’s strong endorsement of Pakistan during its ongoing conflict with Afghanistan signals a troubling shift in the United States’ posture. According to Ramesh, the development undermines India’s diplomatic positioning in the region.
He also referred to recent comments made by Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, linking them to the broader geopolitical climate that preceded the April 22, 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Indian authorities have attributed that attack to elements operating from Pakistan. Ramesh argued that Washington’s public praise for Pakistan’s leadership raises concerns in light of these events.
Trade Deal Draws Fresh Criticism
The Congress leader further questioned the outcomes of India’s recent economic engagement with the United States. He claimed that New Delhi had agreed to a trade arrangement that placed significant obligations on India, particularly commitments to increase agricultural imports from American farmers. In contrast, he said, the United States offered only general assurances regarding expanded market access for Indian exports.
Ramesh pointed out that soon after the agreement was concluded, Washington imposed a 125.87 percent import duty on solar modules originating from India. He described the move as evidence that the trade understanding had failed to secure tangible safeguards for Indian industry.
Strategic Ties Under Strain
Beyond trade, the opposition also raised concerns about the broader strategic relationship between the two countries. Ramesh said Trump’s repeated public expressions of warmth toward Pakistan’s leadership risk reviving what diplomats once called the “hyphenation” of India and Pakistan — a framework in which both countries are treated as a single strategic unit in US foreign policy.
For years, Indian policymakers have sought to establish a distinct bilateral relationship with the United States, separate from the dynamics of South Asia’s rivalries. Congress leaders argue that recent developments suggest that effort may be weakening.
Trump’s Remarks Amid Regional Tensions
The controversy follows Trump’s comments earlier this week during an interaction with reporters. When asked whether he would step in to help calm tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the US president said he shares a strong relationship with Pakistan’s leadership and described the country as performing very well.
Trump also praised Pakistan’s prime minister and its military leadership, saying he respects them. His remarks come at a time when cross-border tensions between Islamabad and Kabul have intensified, raising concerns about regional stability.
Political Implications at Home
The Congress party’s criticism is part of a broader political debate over India’s foreign policy direction. Opposition leaders have increasingly questioned whether high-profile diplomatic engagements and international appearances translate into concrete gains for India’s security and economic interests.
While the government has not formally responded to Ramesh’s latest remarks, officials have previously maintained that India’s partnerships are based on mutual respect and long-term strategic alignment.
As regional dynamics evolve and global alliances shift, the trajectory of India-US relations remains a key focus for policymakers and political observers alike.