New Delhi: The fourth delegation of India’s Operation Sindoor diplomatic mission will embark on a crucial visit to the United Arab Emirates, Liberia, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sierra Leone, marking New Delhi’s strategic outreach to both West Asia and Africa in its global campaign against terrorism.
High-Profile Cross-Party Delegation:
Led by Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Eknath Shinde, the delegation features:
– Bansuri Swaraj (BJP)- Rising star and daughter of late Sushma Swaraj
– ET Mohammed Basheer (IUML) – Prominent Muslim voice from Kerala
– Atul Garg (BJP) – Uttar Pradesh leader
– Dr. Sasmit Patra (BJD) – Odisha’s ruling party representative
– Manan Kumar Mishra (BJP)
– SS Ahluwalia – Former Union Minister
– Amb. Sujan Chinoy – Renowned strategic affairs expert
Strategic Focus Areas:
1. UAE Engagement: Building on strong bilateral ties to counter terror financing
2. African Outreach: Strengthening counter-terror cooperation with resource-rich nations
3. Port Security: Addressing maritime terror threats in Gulf of Guinea region
4. Diaspora Protection: Securing Indian interests in conflict-prone areas
Special Significance:
The UAE visit holds particular importance given its role as:
– Key partner in monitoring Pakistan-based terror financing
– Host to 3.5 million-strong Indian diaspora
– Recent signatory of landmark counter-terror pacts with India
African nations on the itinerary represent:
– Liberia: Strategic partner in West Africa
– DRC: Critical mineral resources hub
– Sierra Leone: Important Indian peacekeeping contribution area
Expert Perspective:
“The inclusion of Amb. Chinoy shows this isn’t just political messaging but serious strategic diplomacy,” noted security analyst Rahul Singh. “The Africa focus complements India’s G20 commitments to the Global South.”
This delegation continues India’s unprecedented parliamentary diplomacy, with five more groups set to visit remaining target nations in coming weeks.
Why This Matters:
– First major Indian parliamentary visit to these African nations
– Combines counter-terror agenda with economic diplomacy
– Features next-gen leaders (Bansuri Swaraj) with veterans (Ahluwalia)
– UAE talks may yield concrete action on terror financing monitoring
