The 18th G20 Summit held in New Delhi has garnered significant attention, with Shashi Tharoor, a prominent Congress MP, offering both praise and criticism. Tharoor hailed the New Delhi Declaration as a “diplomatic triumph for India” while also expressing concerns over the government’s handling of the summit. This article delves into Tharoor’s perspective on the summit, shedding light on the nuances of India’s role in this global event.
The Unexpected Consensus
A Diplomatic Victory
Shashi Tharoor emphasized the unexpected nature of the consensus achieved at the G20 Summit. He lauded India’s ability to bridge the gap between nations with divergent views, particularly regarding the Russian war in Ukraine. Tharoor regarded this achievement as a significant diplomatic milestone.
Potential Setback Averted
Before the summit, pessimism loomed over the likelihood of an agreement. Tharoor highlighted the prevailing belief that a joint communique might not materialize. India’s success in avoiding this potential setback underscores its diplomatic prowess.
The People’s G20
A Unique Approach
Tharoor commended the Indian government for transforming the G20 Summit into a “people’s G20.” He pointed out the unprecedented nationwide reach of the event, involving 200 meetings across 58 cities. This inclusive approach aimed to bring the G20 closer to the public.
Political Instrumentalization
However, Tharoor also voiced concerns over what he perceived as the ruling party’s attempt to leverage the summit for political gain. He argued that the BJP sought to brand the G20 as a personal achievement for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a move that raised eyebrows among observers.
Reviewing G20 Proposals
Modi’s Virtual Session Proposal
Prime Minister Modi‘s proposal for a virtual G20 session in November drew Tharoor’s attention. While acknowledging the government’s right to make such a decision, Tharoor questioned the extensive promotion of Modi’s leadership during the summit. He saw it as an unusual celebration of the ruling party’s role.
Exclusion of Opposition
Tharoor strongly criticized the central government for not inviting opposition leaders to the G20 Summit. He lamented that a country priding itself as the “Mother of Democracy” excluded its democratic opposition from a significant international event, highlighting a lack of accommodation and conciliation.
Conclusion
Shashi Tharoor‘s assessment of the 18th G20 Summit provides valuable insights into the complexities of India’s diplomatic endeavors. While celebrating India’s diplomatic victory, Tharoor raises pertinent questions about the political dimensions of the summit. The interplay between international diplomacy and domestic politics remains a topic of paramount importance.
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FAQs
What is the significance of the New Delhi Declaration?
The New Delhi Declaration, according to Shashi Tharoor, represents a diplomatic triumph for India, as it signifies the successful consensus-building among G20 member states.
How did India bridge the gap on the issue of the Russian war in Ukraine?
India’s diplomatic efforts managed to find a formula that bridged the gap between nations advocating for a condemnation of the war and those opposing any mention of the conflict.
Why did Shashi Tharoor criticize the ruling party’s conduct of the G20 Summit?
Tharoor expressed concerns that the ruling party, BJP, instrumentalized the G20 Summit for political gain, using it as a platform to promote their leadership.
Why did Tharoor find fault with the exclusion of the opposition from the G20 event?
Tharoor believed that excluding the democratic opposition from the event contradicted India’s claim as a champion of democracy and demonstrated a lack of accommodation and conciliation.
What was the central focus of Modi’s proposal for a virtual G20 session in November?
Modi’s proposal aimed to review the suggestions and proposals made at the G20 Summit for international economic cooperation, showcasing the ruling party’s leadership in the process.