Shashi Tharoor Visits 9/11 Memorial in US, Condemns Pakistan’s Terrorism

New York City, May 24, 2025 — Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament Dr. Shashi Tharoor visited the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York City on Friday during his ongoing visit to the United States. Standing at the site that marks one of the gravest terror attacks in modern history, Tharoor made a strong statement condemning terrorism and indirectly criticized Pakistan for its alleged support of cross-border terrorism.

Tharoor, known for his articulate diplomacy and global engagements, laid a wreath at the memorial site and paid tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 attacks. Speaking to reporters after the visit, he drew parallels between global terrorism and regional threats that India continues to face.

"Visiting this solemn place reminds us of the global cost of terrorism and why we must unite to combat it in all its forms," Tharoor said. "Pakistan’s persistent support for terrorism is not acceptable to us — and should not be acceptable to the world."

A Global Perspective from an Indian Voice

Tharoor, who served as a former Under-Secretary-General at the United Nations, emphasized the need for consistent international pressure on nations that harbor or sponsor terrorism. Without naming specific incidents, he referred to various attacks in India that have been linked to Pakistan-based terror groups.

“Our experience with cross-border terrorism is long and painful. We cannot forget what happened in Mumbai in 2008, just as the United States will never forget 9/11. There must be accountability,” Tharoor said.

His comments come amid renewed discussions about India's foreign policy and the global community’s response to state-sponsored terrorism. Analysts believe his remarks echo India's consistent stand on the issue and reflect growing Indo-US cooperation on counterterrorism.

Cultural Diplomacy and Strategic Talks

Tharoor’s visit is part of a larger itinerary that includes lectures at American universities, meetings with Indian diaspora leaders, and diplomatic engagements with U.S. lawmakers. The Congress MP has long advocated for stronger cultural diplomacy and has used this trip to discuss India’s role in global governance, climate action, and multilateral partnerships.

Speaking at an event organized by the Indian-American Council later in the day, Tharoor reiterated the importance of values-based foreign policy. “India stands for peace, democracy, and pluralism. But that doesn’t mean we’ll stay silent on issues like terrorism. Our security and our values are non-negotiable,” he said.

Reactions and Political Significance

Tharoor's firm stance has drawn praise from sections of the Indian diaspora and social media users, who see it as a timely reminder of India's security challenges and a call for global unity against terror.

While officials in Islamabad have yet to respond, political observers say Tharoor’s remarks reflect bipartisan consensus in India on the issue of terrorism, regardless of party lines.

As the world remembers 9/11 and continues to face evolving security threats, voices like Tharoor’s seek to ensure that lessons from the past shape a more secure future.