‘Don’t set impossible tasks for diplomacy’: Ex-NSA Shivshankar Menon says it’s not India’s job to stop IMF loans to Pakistan

Former National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon warned against anticipating diplomatic results that cater solely to India’s interests, saying, “Avoid imposing unrealistic goals on diplomacy.” He highlighted that countries operate in line with their own strategic priorities, not influenced by India’s position.

Menon answered inquiries regarding international responses after India’s airstrikes—known as “Operation Sindoor”—targeting terrorist networks in Pakistan. Despite the operation, Pakistan obtained a $1.023 billion loan from the IMF while it was still in progress, and US CENTCOM Commander General Michael Kurilla referred to Pakistan as a “phenomenal partner” in the fight against terrorism.

Menon noted that Pakistan has redefined its role as beneficial to both China and the United States. He highlighted Islamabad’s involvement in CENTCOM’s battle against ISIS-Khorasan and its investments in cryptocurrency projects supported by the White House. He cautioned that global powers focus on what benefits their own interests.

Concerning the IMF financing, Menon said it is not within India’s right to prevent loans to Pakistan. “The international community is not in favor of Pakistan descending into total chaos, thus they will persist in collaborating with Pakistan,” he stated. He explained that although India can point out Pakistan’s backing of terrorism, global reactions are influenced by self-interest rather than moral values.

Menon additionally stated that previously, world powers considered Pakistan’s terrorism a direct danger, but these views have shifted now. Nations no longer view Pakistan as a danger to their security and consequently are less inclined to pursue actions beyond their immediate concerns. Essentially, Menon emphasized the importance of realism in diplomacy, cautioning against the assumption that other nations would place India’s security needs above their own priorities.