Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has lauded the Narendra Modi government for its "vaccine diplomacy" efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic. In his recent column titled 'Covid’s silver lining for India', he emphasised that the government's 'Vaccine Maitri' initiative is a shining example and “stood out from amid the horrors of that time as a powerful example of international leadership rooted in responsibility and solidarity." In the column, Tharoor highlighted how India’s decision to send Covishield and Covaxin to over 100 countries during a global crisis helped “India emerge as a key player in global health diplomacy, showcasing its capacity to address global challenges."

“India did what more affluent countries did not. The vaccine shipments enhanced our country’s global image; India’s efforts were widely appreciated, enhancing its reputation as a responsible global leader," Tharoor said. Shashi Tharoor commended the leadership of the current government without directly mentioning PM Modi's name, stating, “India’s vaccine diplomacy embodied and contributed to the very spirit of its soft power. It carried the values of compassion, cooperation, and global partnership to the world, building goodwill, strengthening diplomatic ties, and elevating India’s global stature."

Tharoor's column was published just days after he expressed support for Prime Minister Modi's position on the Russia-Ukraine war. “Russia-Ukraine peace is absolutely important for the world, but as our PM said, peace can not be found on the battlefield. It will have to require some negotiation. We are glad that some process has started already but these are early days. We don’t know if they are only talking about a ceasefire or whether there is going to be an enduring peace settlement… We have to wait and watch. I think the speculation here is very premature," Tharoor stated.

Tharoor admitted that he was proven wrong in criticising India’s position when the Russia-Ukraine war began, saying he was left with an “egg on his face.” He acknowledged that because of India's policy, the country is now in a strong position to contribute to efforts for lasting peace. The BJP has been mocking the Congress over Tharoor’s recent praise of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Rumours of a rift within Congress grew after he also praised the LDF government in Kerala. Tharoor, however, clarified that he remains committed to the party but hinted that he had "options" if his services were no longer needed. Despite speculation about a possible switch, he dismissed the idea, stating that he does not believe in party-hopping, even if he has differing views within Congress.