NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has weighed in on Donald Trump’s anticipated return to the U.S. presidency following the 2024 election. Noting Trump’s “transactional” leadership style, Tharoor remarked, “It seems as if he [Trump] is coming back. I think the official declaration is imminent.” He added that Trump’s previous four years in office provided insight into his diplomatic approach, so “there shouldn’t be too many surprises.”
As the chair of the Parliament Standing Committee on External Affairs, Tharoor highlighted Trump’s strong trade focus, his supportive relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and a firm stance on China, which he said could benefit India given current tensions. However, regarding India-Canada relations, Tharoor expressed doubt that Trump would take a personal interest, noting, “I don’t see Trump taking a personal interest very much in that particular issue… this is all speculation.”
The Indian National Congress (INC) has extended its congratulations to President Trump on his victory. Party President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized the “robust comprehensive global strategic partnership” between India and the U.S., grounded in shared democratic values and people-to-people ties. “We look forward to working closely with the United States for global peace and prosperity,” Kharge wrote on X, reaffirming the Congress party’s commitment to advancing diplomatic relations under Trump’s leadership.
Discussing the close nature of the election, Tharoor explained, “In the U.S., counting often begins in less-populated rural areas,” typically favoring Trump, while votes from urban, Democratic-leaning areas might shift trends. He added that, according to the Associated Press, “The AP… had Trump in a very big lead… now showing electoral college votes at 220-205. Very tight.”
Reflecting on the contested results of the 2020 election, Tharoor anticipated potential legal challenges, urging patience for final outcomes. Trump has seen success in battleground states like North Carolina and Georgia, while Kamala Harris aimed to make history as the first female U.S. president.
Tharoor also discussed India’s strained relations with Canada over Khalistani extremism, urging diplomatic engagement. He stressed the importance of addressing issues that “transcend politics,” and, along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, attended a recent briefing on the issue, reiterating India’s stance on tackling extremism abroad.
