Gandhi Slams Jaishankar’s China Diplomacy as “Circus”
Congress Leader Cites “Destroying India’s Foreign Policy”
New Delhi, India – Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has sharply criticized External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent engagement with Chinese President Xi Jinping, labeling the minister’s actions a “full-blown circus” detrimental to India’s foreign policy.
Criticism Over SCO Meeting Briefing
Gandhi‘s comments followed Jaishankar‘s report on apprising President Xi of the latest developments in bilateral relations during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Beijing. The opposition figure expressed his dissatisfaction via a post on X (formerly Twitter).
I guess the Chinese foreign minister will come and apprise Modi about recent developments in China-India ties. The EAM is now running a full blown circus aimed at destroying India’s foreign policy.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 16, 2024
Jaishankar Details Beijing Engagements
Jaishankar had shared details of his meetings, including a call on President Xi alongside fellow SCO foreign ministers. He conveyed greetings from President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and stated, “Apprised President Xi of the recent development of our bilateral ties. Value the guidance of our leaders in that regard.”
Diplomatic Schedule in Beijing
The External Affairs Minister’s visit included discussions with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the roadmap for bilateral relations. Jaishankar emphasized the need for a long-term perspective and mutual respect, noting the importance of addressing border issues, normalizing exchanges, and removing trade impediments. He also met Chinese Vice President Han Zheng.
Broader SCO Context
During his Beijing engagements, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s support for China’s SCO presidency and commitment to achieving meaningful outcomes from the grouping. India’s approach to foreign policy, particularly concerning China, remains a key point of discussion. In 2023, India’s trade deficit with China widened to $83.5 billion, underscoring economic complexities in the relationship (Business Standard, 2023).
