BERLIN– Reaffirming India’s uncompromising stance on terrorism, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar declared on Friday that India will never yield to nuclear threats and will continue to handle relations with Pakistan strictly on a bilateral basis.
Speaking at a joint press conference alongside German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Jaishankar made the remarks while thanking Germany for its strong support following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam and India’s subsequent counter-terror operation, codenamed Operation Sindoor.
“I come to Berlin in the immediate aftermath of India’s response to the Pahalgam terror attack,” said Jaishankar. “India has zero tolerance for terrorism. We will never give in to nuclear blackmail, and our dealings with Pakistan will remain strictly bilateral. There should be no confusion on this point.”
The Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of several civilians, has drawn widespread international condemnation. Germany reiterated its solidarity with India and affirmed New Delhi’s right to defend itself.
“We were all appalled by the brutal terrorist attack on April 22,” said Wadephul. “We condemn it in the strongest terms. Our deepest sympathies go to the victims and their families. India, of course, has every right to defend itself against terrorism. We appreciate the fact that a truce is currently in place.”
He added, “What’s important now is for that truce to hold, and for dialogue to lead to bilateral solutions.”
The two leaders also discussed ways to deepen the India-Germany strategic partnership, exploring areas of enhanced cooperation and mutual interest. Their talks included regional and global security issues, economic collaboration, and shared challenges.
Jaishankar later posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Exchanged views on issues from our immediate neighborhood to global concerns and challenges. Look forward to welcoming him in India.”
Germany marked the final stop on Jaishankar’s three-nation diplomatic tour, which began in the Netherlands on May 19 and included a visit to Denmark. During the trip, he held high-level meetings with leaders in all three countries, reinforcing bilateral ties and addressing key regional and international concerns. (Source: IANS)
