In a significant diplomatic engagement, a Shashi Tharoor-led Indian delegation met with Panama’s Foreign Minister Javier Martinez Acha on Wednesday (local time), presenting photographic evidence of Pakistani Army officials attending the funerals of UN-designated terrorists eliminated in Operation Sindoor — India’s retaliatory mission following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Panama Extends Strong Support to India’s Anti-Terror Stand
Following the meeting, Panama’s Foreign Minister Acha delivered a strong message of solidarity with India, affirming Panama’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism.
“We stand with India. We cannot tolerate any kind of terrorism or countries sponsoring terrorism. India, as the world’s largest democracy, shares our values and we will fight this menace together,” said Acha.
The Indian delegation, which included members across political parties, had detailed discussions on Pakistan’s continued patronage of terrorism, sharing visual proof and requesting stronger global censure.
Tharoor: Warm Response and Pathway for Deeper Ties
Speaking to media, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said the Panamanian leadership was “receptive and open-hearted” to India’s concerns and proposals.
“Minister Acha also discussed collaboration in technology, education, pharmaceuticals, and other future areas, reaffirming the Panamanian government’s commitment to deeper bilateral ties,” Tharoor added.
High-Level Visits on the Horizon
Foreign Minister Acha expressed eagerness to visit India soon, while also discussing plans to facilitate a visit by the Panamanian President. Jokingly, he referenced Tharoor’s promise to invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Panama, to which Tharoor responded, “We’ll try to persuade him.”
Tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at University of Panama
Earlier, the Indian delegation paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi’s bust at the Peace Plaza of the University of Panama and planted a sapling to commemorate the enduring legacy of non-violence and peace.
“We want the youth of Panama to grow up with admiration for Gandhi’s ideals of peace, freedom, and justice,” said Tharoor.
Delegation Composition – Political Unity on Foreign Soil
The Group 5 delegation represents a cross-party coalition, including:
- Shambhavi Chaudhary (LJP)
- Sarfaraz Ahmed (JMM)
- G M Harish Balayagi (TDP)
- Tejasvi Surya, Shashank Mani Tripathi, Bhubaneswar Kalita (BJP)
- Milind Deora, Mallikarjun Devda (Shiv Sena)
- Taranjit Singh Sandhu (Former Indian Ambassador to the US)