New Delhi, July 30 (H.S.): External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar addressed the Rajya Sabha regarding 'Operation Sindoor' and opposition claims about the military alliance between Pakistan and China. He attributed the alliance to India's abandonment of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, mocking the opposition for seemingly being unaware of historical context. Jaishankar highlighted his extensive experience in foreign service and pointed out that the greatest strategic loss with China in the last two decades was Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port, which was downplayed by the previous Congress-led government.

He claimed that China’s influence is significant, referencing a member of the opposition, Jairam Ramesh, who has previously engaged in treaty discussions with China. Jaishankar emphasized that the close ties between China and Pakistan are longstanding and that the opposition's portrayal of their emergence as sudden reflects ignorance of history. Responding to Congress leader P. Chidambaram's inquiries about his China visit, he assured there were no secretive engagements. He elaborated on discussions with China regarding terrorism, trade, and de-escalation, stressing the importance of recognizing sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The External Affairs Minister contrasted Indian and U.S. policies towards Pakistan, stating that terrorism and dialogue cannot coexist. He clarified that there was no communication between Prime Minister Modi and the U.S. President from April to June 16. Regarding Operation Sindoor, he urged the opposition to witness the impact of their efforts through reports of rising terrorist funerals in Pakistan and the destruction of significant terrorist hubs.

Jaishankar referenced historical mistakes made during Nehru's administration, asserting that Modi's government is actively correcting these errors, such as the abrogation of Article 370 and reconsideration of the Indus Water Treaty. He criticized the treaty's inequity, advocating for India's full rights over its water resources to safeguard national interests. The time has come, he asserted, for India to assert control over its vital water resources.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar