Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, speaking from Thiruvananthapuram, expressed cautious optimism in response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent conciliatory tone toward India, noting that one cannot simply “forget and forgive” the past abrupt policy blows and insults. He emphasized that the consequences, particularly the burdensome 50% tariffs, continue to impact Indian businesses and citizens profoundly.

Tharoor commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for swiftly affirming the “comprehensive global strategic partnership” between the two countries. Nonetheless, he underscored that both governments must undertake "serious repair work," given Trump's “mercurial temperament” and its repercussions.

He further rebutted the criticism from U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who suggested India would “say sorry” and return to negotiations. Tharoor flatly rejected the premise, arguing that India has no reason to apologize, having acted with maturity and strategic autonomy - pointing out that earlier U.S. administrations even encouraged India’s purchase of Russian oil.