External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s zero tolerance for terrorism on Friday, declaring that the nation will never yield to nuclear blackmail and will address issues with Pakistan strictly through bilateral channels.
Speaking at a joint press conference with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Jaishankar made the firm declaration in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor.
Germany further expressed full support for India, underscoring New Delhi’s right to defend itself against terrorism.
“I come to Berlin in the immediate aftermath of India responding to the Pahalgam terror attack. India has zero tolerance for terrorism. India will never give in to nuclear blackmail, and India will deal with Pakistan purely bilaterally. There should be no confusion in any quarter in that regard. We also value Germany’s understanding that every nation has the right to defend itself against terrorism,” Jaishankar said.
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
During their discussions, both ministers explored ways to make the strategic partnership between India and Germany “stronger, deeper and closer,” while identifying new areas of promise and potential cooperation.
Wadephul condemned the brutal terror attack, expressing solidarity with India.
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“We were all appalled by the brutal terrorist attack on India on April 22. We condemn this attack on civilians in the strongest terms. Our deepest sympathy goes out to all victims and their families,” he said. “After military attacks on both sides, India, of course, has every right to defend itself against terrorism… the fact that a truce is in place is something we appreciate very much.”
He added, “What is important now is that this truce remains stable, that dialogue can happen to find bilateral solutions.”
Jaishankar expressed eagerness to welcome Wadephul to India, tweeting, “Exchanged views on issues from our immediate neighbourhood to global concerns and challenges. Look forward to welcoming him in India.”
Germany Concludes Three-Nation European Tour
Germany further marked the final stop on Jaishankar’s three-nation tour, which began in the Netherlands on May 19 and included an official visit to Denmark.
During his European visits, Jaishankar met top leadership and engaged in comprehensive talks covering bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues of mutual interest.
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