New Delhi: In what could spark a massive controversy, senior Congress leader Sam Pitroda requested the Centre to focus on strengthening ties with neighbouring countries first, and said that he felt at home when he visited Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh.
“Our foreign policy, according to me, must first focus on our neighbourhood. Can we really substantially improve relationships with our neighbours?” Pitroda, who is Indian Overseas Congress chief, said.
“I have been to Pakistan, and I must tell you, I felt at home. I have been to Bangladesh, I have been to Nepal, and I feel at home. I don’t feel like I’m in a foreign country,” the veteral Congress leader added.
Pitroda’s remarks evoked sharp reactions from the ruling BJP which hit out at the Congress leadership of undermining India’s national interest. “Rahul Gandhi’s blue-eyed boy & Congress Overseas chief Sam Pitroda says he ‘felt at home’ in Pakistan. No wonder UPA took no tough action against Pak even after 26/11. Pakistan’s favourite, Congress’s chosen!” BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari said.