EAM Jaishankar In Berlin, Says Pahalgam Attack Meant To Disrupt Tourism & Stir Communal Discord

On an official visit to Berlin, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar strongly condemned the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, saying the attackers aimed to create fear psychosis, damage the thriving tourism economy, and stir religious discord in India.

He was speaking at the Centre for Geopolitics, Geoeconomics and Technology under the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP).

Addressing global concerns around terrorism, Jaishankar stressed that no country, including Germany, endorses terrorism.

He underscored India’s zero-tolerance policy and its right to act decisively in defence. “India has not and will never give in to nuclear blackmail,” he said.

He added that the attack was clearly an extension of state-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan and commended Germany’s condemnation of the incident.

Jaishankar shared that he had spoken to German leadership on the day Operation Sindoor was launched (May 7), describing India’s targeted response on terror infrastructure in Pakistan.

He appreciated Germany’s recognition of India’s sovereign right to defend itself and the clarity with which it condemned the killing of civilians in Pahalgam.

Reaffirming India’s stance, he noted that there is ‘no room for third-party mediation’ in matters related to Pakistan and that any dialogue will be strictly bilateral.

Strengthening India-Germany Ties

During his interactions with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, EAM Jaishankar reviewed the 25-year strategic partnership between the two nations and offered a forward-looking roadmap.

He proposed enhanced cooperation in defence and security, where both sides have recently shown renewed interest.

“Our defence and security ties would be much stronger through active cooperation,” he remarked, citing increased naval visits and export discussions.

He further outlined collaboration in talent mobility, technology, and sustainability.

India’s demographic advantage, he said, positions it well to contribute to a global workforce, while joint ventures in AI and green growth could define the future of bilateral ties.

Germany reiterated its full support for India’s counter-terrorism efforts.

“Terrorism has no place anywhere in the world,” said Wadephul, affirming solidarity after the Pahalgam attack.

He also praised India’s growing role as a stabilising force in a multipolar world.

As part of his European tour, Jaishankar met members of the Bundestag and conveyed India’s gratitude for Germany’s consistent support.

In his remarks, he emphasised the importance of defending the rules-based international order through partnerships built on mutual respect and shared democratic values.

The visit underscores India’s resolve to strengthen global partnerships while firmly countering terrorism on all fronts.

Also Read: India Reaffirms Zero Tolerance For Terrorism; Vows To Counter Nuclear Blackmail