Abhishek Banerjee skips meeting with Foreign Minister citing prior commitments

Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee has returned home after a two-week diplomatic tour, during which he highlighted 'Operation Sindoor' and India's significant role in combating global terrorism. Banerjee arrived at Kolkata airport late Tuesday night, concluding his extensive visit as part of an Indian delegation.

As a key member of the delegation, Abhishek Banerjee delivered India's crucial message to five prominent Asian countries over the past two weeks. While External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is scheduled to meet the delegation members on Wednesday to discuss the outcomes of this visit, Banerjee has indicated his inability to attend the meeting, citing prior commitments. He has also formally informed the Ministry of External Affairs about the reason for his absence.

Abhishek Banerjee's diplomatic journey commenced on May 21st, when he first departed for Japan with the delegation. Led by JDU MP Sanjay Jha, the delegation subsequently visited South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. During these engagements, Banerjee played a pivotal role in underscoring Pakistan's alleged involvement in supporting terrorism on the global stage.

After completing the two-week tour, Banerjee landed at Kolkata airport at 12:15 AM on Tuesday. His return marks the end of a demanding schedule aimed at strengthening India's diplomatic outreach and reiterating its firm stance against terrorism.

Upon leaving the airport, Abhishek Banerjee spoke to the media about his extensive travels. He said, "We have been to five countries for about 15 days. Various meetings have been held," he stated. Regarding the upcoming meeting with the Foreign Minister, he added, "The Foreign Minister has called a meeting on Wednesday. He wants to sit separately with the delegations that went. I will not be able to attend Wednesday's meeting. I have some pre-scheduled meetings and programs."

He further explained his absence, noting, "Since I have been out of the country for a long time. In the meantime, the date of the by-election in Kaliganj has been announced. I have some work of my own in my area. I will be busy with them for the next 2-4 days." Banerjee assured that he would communicate his views in writing to the Ministry of External Affairs and subsequently share them with the public.