On June 5, Vice President J.D. Vance met with an Indian All-Party Parliamentary Delegation led by Shashi Tharoor, describing their discussions as an ‘excellent meeting’ focused on counter-terrorism and regional security. This meeting followed a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, and highlighted the growing strategic ties between India and the U.S. Tharoor, chair of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, noted the productive exchange on various issues, including technological cooperation, to strengthen the India-U.S. partnership. Vance, who had previously expressed condolences to Prime Minister Modi after the Pahalgam attack, condemned the violence and offered U.S. assistance in combating terrorism. The attack, which targeted tourists, was a key topic during the delegation’s visit, with Tharoor calling it ‘a sickening outrage.’ He also participated in a Council on Foreign Relations discussion on India’s response, including Operation Sindoor, a new counter-terror initiative. The delegation met with Senators Andy Kim and Chris Van Hollen on Capitol Hill to discuss Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and India’s response. Congressman Gregory Meeks welcomed Chairman Shashi Tharoor and the Indian Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, expressing condolences for the Pahalgam attack and reaffirming Congress’s commitment to the US-India partnership. On June 4, the delegation also engaged with the Indian American community to promote national unity against terrorism and support for India’s counter-terrorism efforts. Tharoor stated their goal was to share their experiences and gain solidarity, noting that all they met condemned the attack and supported India’s right to self-defense. This visit marked a key diplomatic effort by Indian lawmakers to strengthen global support against terrorism and enhance relations with allies like the US.
