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Colombia's Support for India's Stance on Terrorism

Colombia is set to issue a statement backing India's position on terrorism, following the sentiments expressed by India regarding the casualties in Pakistan after Operation Sindoor commenced on May 7. Leading a multi-party delegation to Colombia, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor stated, "They have retracted their previous statement that had initially disappointed us, and they will release a statement supporting our stance." This announcement comes after concerns were raised about Colombia's earlier expression of condolences for the losses in Pakistan, which caused disappointment in New Delhi, especially in light of a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

Clarification from Colombia After High-Level Meeting

On Friday, the Indian delegation met with Colombia's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio, to discuss the matter. Following this meeting, the Colombian government clarified its position and confirmed the retraction of its earlier statement.

Tharoor Expresses Satisfaction Over Colombia's Statement Withdrawal

After meeting with Alejandro Toro, the chair of the second commission of the Chamber of Representatives, Tharoor emphasized the need for clarity in global responses to terrorism. He remarked, "There can be no equivalence between terrorists and innocent civilians. There is no comparison between those attacking our nation and those defending it. Our only disappointment with Colombia's previous statement was that it seemed to overlook this distinction. We are pleased to learn that, as you mentioned, that statement has been retracted, and we are also very glad that you, as representatives of the Colombian people, stand with us for our sovereignty and peace in the region."

Positive Reception of India's Perspective

Following the meeting with Deputy Minister Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio, Tharoor noted that India's viewpoint was well received. The Deputy Minister stated, "The clarification we received today and the detailed information about the actual situation regarding the conflict and events in Kashmir have reassured us greatly." Tharoor praised Colombia's revised stance and confirmed the retraction of the controversial statement, saying, "The Deputy Minister humbly mentioned that they have withdrawn the statement we were concerned about, and they fully understand our position, which is very valuable to us."

Tharoor's Social Media Update

On social media, Tharoor tweeted, "Today began with an excellent meeting with Colombia's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio, and her senior colleagues. I expressed India's perspective on recent events and conveyed disappointment regarding Colombia's statement on May 8, which expressed 'heartfelt condolences' towards Pakistan. The Minister assured me that the statement has been retracted, and our position is now properly understood and firmly supported."

Multilateral Delegation's Diplomatic Mission

After stops in Panama and Guyana, the multi-party delegation arrived in Colombia on Thursday (May 29). This visit is part of India's broader diplomatic initiative to emphasize its zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. Following their meetings in Bogotá, the delegation is set to travel to Brazil and the United States.

Official Statement from Colombia

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