Following the May 2025 India-Pakistan confrontation, India has initiated an across-the-board diplomatic effort aiming at fulfilling several strategic objectives across the world.
Beating Pakistan’s Narrative
India wishes to show Pakistan’s alleged support for cross-border terrorism, particularly after the April 22 Pahalgam attack in which 26 civilians were killed. India is taking seven all-party delegations to 32 countries and the European Union with the view to presenting evidence and tales which determine Pakistan’s involvement in promoting terrorism.
Showing National Unity
The inclusion of members representing all political parties in such delegations emphasizes a national, united position against terrorism, as against individual political lines. This convergence attempts to project a robust India abroad, demonstrating a united strategy towards issues of national security.
Projecting India’s International Image
Through such diplomatic engagements, India attempts to project itself as a responsible, active global player committed to the war against terrorism. The gestures assist in projecting India as a nation that abides by international norms and willing to take strong measures in protecting its citizens.
Building International Consensus
By appealing to a broad group of countries, including UN Security Council members, India aims to have a broad coalition behind it in favor of its stand against terrorism. Such universality is necessary if it is to rally international support in forums and as the platform for future action against terrorism forces.
Resistance to IMF, World Bank Funding
India opposed the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) May 9 move to allow a $1 billion tranche loan to Pakistan, citing apprehensions that the money could be used to finance cross-border terrorism and purchase military equipment. India had objected to the release of funds, but the IMF proceeded to claim that Pakistan had met the conditions.
In the future, India plans to resist future World Bank aid to Pakistan on the grounds that previous World Bank aid was used to acquire weapons and ammunition rather than for development.
Push for FATF Grey List Re-inclusion
India is also preparing to push for the re-inclusion of Pakistan in the FATF’s grey list at the June plenary session of the organization. India’s contention is that Pakistan has failed to make adequate progress in aligning with anti-money laundering and countering financing of terrorism norms, despite having agreed to do so while it was taken out of the grey list in 2022. A dossier documenting Pakistan’s non-compliance is being prepared to support this move.
A re-listing on the FATF grey list would have a significant impact on the Pakistani economy by imposing restrictions on its ability to access international financial assistance and, therefore, add pressure to Islamabad to address matters related to terror financing.
Through these actions, India will attempt to keep Pakistan under pressure at the global front and restrict financial assistance that could be utilized in supporting regional destabilizing activities.
In essence, India’s Operation Sindoor diplomacy is a multi-faceted initiative aimed at counteracting negative narratives, unifying domestic political voices on the world stage, and reaffirming its status as a nation committed to international peace and security.
