Former Minister Questions Benefits of Modi-Trump Relationship
In a significant political statement, senior Congress leader and former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid has claimed that the much-publicized friendship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump has failed to deliver substantial benefits for India. The criticism came during an exclusive conversation with Deccan Herald's Amrita Madhukalya on November 22, 2025.
Concerns Over Diplomatic Direction
Khurshid expressed deep concerns about what he described as the "saffronisation" of Indian diplomacy, suggesting that the country's foreign policy approach has taken a worrying turn under the current administration. The veteran politician, who has firsthand experience in handling international relations, emphasized that personal chemistry between leaders should translate into tangible advantages for the nation.
The discussion, timed at 19:08 IST on November 22, 2025, revealed Khurshid's apprehensions about the current trajectory of India's engagement with global powers. He argued that while personal relationships between world leaders can create positive atmospherics, they must ultimately serve national interests and strategic objectives.
Call for Foreign Policy Reassessment
During the extensive dialogue, Khurshid outlined several areas where he believes India's foreign affairs approach requires immediate correction. The former minister stressed the need for a more balanced and principled diplomatic stance that prioritizes India's long-term interests over short-term political gains.
Khurshid's comments come at a time when India's foreign policy has been under increased scrutiny from various quarters. His critique of the Modi-Trump friendship dynamics adds to the ongoing debate about whether close personal relationships between leaders genuinely advance national interests or merely serve diplomatic optics.
The senior Congress leader's observations carry particular weight given his extensive experience in international relations and his previous role as India's External Affairs Minister. His call for a fundamental reassessment of India's diplomatic approach signals growing concern among opposition leaders about the direction of the country's foreign policy.
