"There's great regard for PM Modi's ability to talk to all political spectrums," Former Diplomat Veena Sikri
New Delhi, March 28
Former Indian Diplomat, Veena Sikri said that the world over, there's a great regard and respect for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Sikri, while talking to ANI about the situation in Middle East, said that Prime Minister Modi has an ability to talk to all the people on all sides of the political spectrum and to get their support.
She said, "Even in the midst of this Iran, Israel, USA conflict, Prime Minister Modi has been speaking to all the people in the conflict. He's been speaking to the President of Iran, he's been speaking to the President of the UAE, and he has spoken with President Trump. The world over, there's a great regard and respect for Prime Minister Modi and his ability to talk to all the people on all sides of the political spectrum and to get their support."
"US President Donald Trump said that Iran is begging to make a deal, not them. Well, I think that is a totally different question. I think Iran is always saying that there are no talks between Iran and the USA. But of course, everybody is speculating that messages are being passed by Pakistan. Pakistan is not a mediator in any way. But they are passing messages that President Trump has sent his 15-point plan... Iran has rejected that plan, as they have their own plan," she said.
Foreign Affairs Expert Robinder Sachdev said that US President Donald Trump respects strength, quick decision-making, and leaders who follow through.
He said, "Trump respects strength, quick decision-making, and leaders who follow through. He sees similar qualities in Prime Minister Modi, who takes firm decisions and ensures they are executed. Trump's remarks came after a phone call with Modi about global issues and the Gulf conflict. He has clear expectations: in trade, he wants the best deal for the US once the current interim tariff expires. In energy, he wants India to buy more American crude oil and LNG, while also diversifying with Russian supplies."
Meanwhile, a shipment of 47,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) arrived at the Vadinar Terminal of DPA Kandla in Jamnagar, Gujarat, on Saturday.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While the diplomatic outreach is commendable, I hope this translates into tangible benefits for the common Indian. The article mentions the LPG shipment – stable energy supplies at reasonable prices are what matter most to households and businesses. The real test is managing these global ties while keeping domestic inflation in check.
Good to see our diplomats and experts acknowledging this. For a long time, India's foreign policy was seen as reactive. Now there's a clear strategy. Talking to Iran, Israel, and the US simultaneously without alienating anyone is a delicate balancing act. Hope this skill is also used to foster better relations with our immediate neighbors.
Respect is earned. The world sees a decisive leader in Modi ji. But let's be clear, the mention of Pakistan "passing messages" is concerning. We must ensure our national interests are not compromised by third parties in any backchannel talks. Our diplomacy should be direct and transparent.
The part about Trump wanting India to buy more American oil while we also diversify with Russian supplies sums up our challenge perfectly. We have to navigate between major powers for our benefit. It's a tough job, but having a leader who can talk to everyone is the first step. Jai Hind!
I appreciate the former diplomat's perspective. However, we must also ask if this global regard is being leveraged sufficiently to address issues like the trade tensions with the US. Strong conversations are good, but strong outcomes for our farmers and industries are better. The proof will be in the pudding.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.