“Neighbours Like Bangladesh Are Drifting Away from India” — Sharad Pawar to Modi

Melbourne, August 10—Sharad Pawar, chief of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP – Sharad Pawar faction), has urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to pay closer attention to India’s deteriorating relations with its neighbouring countries.

“Our neighbourhood policy cannot be ignored,” said Pawar. “Today, Pakistan is openly against us, and countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives are also not happy with India. Our neighbours are slowly drifting away. Modi should not overlook this and must work to improve these relationships.”

According to The Economic Times, Pawar made the remarks during a press conference held in Nagpur on Saturday.

He also addressed the issue of a 50% tariff imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump on Indian goods, calling it a pressure tactic.

The former Union Minister stated, “The 50% duty on Indian goods is a method of exerting pressure. In the interest of protecting the country’s economy, we should support our government.”

While Pawar refrained from directly criticizing the Modi government’s foreign policy, he expressed concerns about its effectiveness.

Speaking about Donald Trump’s political behavior, Pawar said, “During his first term, we observed how Trump operates. I believe no one can control him. He often speaks impulsively, saying whatever comes to his mind without restraint.”