Indian lawmakers spoke at the National Press Club during a Newsmakers event.
WASHINGTON, DC, June 6, 2025 — On Wednesday, June 4, at 3:00 p.m., the National Press Club welcomed four distinguished members of an all-party delegation from India for an insightful Newsmakers event. The discussion delved into critical topics, such as Operation Sindoor, a significant military initiative, as well as pressing regional security issues that affect both India and its neighbors. Moreover, the delegates examined India’s evolving diplomatic relationship with the United States, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and dialogue.
The panel featured three distinguished speakers: Dr. Shashi Tharoor, a noted author and politician known for his eloquence; Mr. Milind Deora, a dynamic young leader with a strong focus on progressive policies; and Mr. Tejasvi Surya, an influential voice representing the rising generation in Indian politics. Together, they offered a rich tapestry of perspectives on the nation’s political landscape. Joining them was Taranjit Singh Sandhu, the former Indian Ambassador to the United States, who shared his extensive knowledge and firsthand experiences regarding India’s foreign policy initiatives, shedding light on the intricacies of international relations and diplomacy that shape the country’s standing on the global stage.
The Headliners event was a prestigious gathering exclusively for credentialed media professionals and esteemed members of the National Press Club, necessitating prior registration for attendance.
Attendees were encouraged to engage with the speakers by submitting their questions in advance, fostering an interactive and thought-provoking environment.
Set in the elegant Holman Lounge, the event took place at the National Press Club, conveniently located at 529 14th St NW in the heart of Washington, D.C. This vibrant setting provided an ideal backdrop for insightful discussions and networking among journalists and media experts.
Dr. Shashi Tharoor is an author, politician, and former international diplomat. He is a four-term member of the Lok Sabha, representing Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, in the Indian Parliament. As a member of the Indian National Congress, he has served as the Minister of State for External Affairs and the Minister of State for Human Resource Development during the second United Progressive Alliance government. Currently, he chairs the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs.
Tejasvi Surya, elected to the 17th Lok Sabha at the age of 28, represents the Bengaluru South constituency in Parliament. Since September 2020, he has also served as the national president of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha.
Milind Murli Deora is a former Union minister and a member of Parliament representing Mumbai South. He has held important positions in both the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the Ministry of Shipping. Additionally, he served as the leader of the Mumbai Regional Congress Committee. Elected to Parliament, he is also a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board at Boston University’s Pardee School.
Amb. Taranjit Singh Sandhu is a retired Indian diplomat who served as the Ambassador of India to the U.S. from February 2020 to January 2024 and as the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka from January 2017 to January 2020.
Congress Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor, leading a diverse all-party delegation on a diplomatic mission to the United States, firmly stated that engaging in dialogue with Pakistan is unattainable while “a gun is pointed at our head.”
During an informative session at the renowned National Press Club, Tharoor emphasized that the United States comprehensively understands India’s unwavering stance: there will be “no talks with a gun pointed at our head.” He elaborated, “While we are prepared to converse in any of their languages, we will not entertain discussions with those who may threaten our security. Engaging in negotiations with someone wielding a weapon against you is simply unacceptable.”
Tharoor passionately conveyed that the all-party parliamentary delegation is in the U.S. to present a clear articulation of India’s stance and to dispel any misconceptions that may exist. Their primary objective is to facilitate a deeper understanding of India’s perspective among international interlocutors without anticipating any specific actions or decisions from their side.
When asked about expected outcomes regarding U.S. actions towards Pakistan, he replied thoughtfully, “We are not here to negotiate specific outcomes; that responsibility falls on the government’s shoulders. Our mission is to clarify our position and respond to any questions posed by our counterparts. We aim to ensure that they grasp our viewpoint and, if appropriate, express their solidarity with our concerns.”
Source: National Press Club
— The Editor of CitiTimes is a distinguished member of the National Press Club.
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