NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar defended India’s right to defend itself against terorism, while taking a veiled jab at Pakistan about “spreading misinformation” and that it’s on “the perpetrator of terrorism to mend its ways”.While not naming directly Pakistan or its PM Shehbaz Sharif, Jaishankar called out “a serial practioner of terrorism” who “misrepresented facts”. “Mr president (UN), yesterday, a serial practioner of terrorism misrepresented facts before this Assembly. Arguments were invoked to normalise and claim immunity from its consequences. That will not stand,” he said at UNGA.“Our right to defend ourselves against terrorism will be exercised,” he added. Further calling for action against terorrism, the EAM said, “”A persistent threat to peace has been the scourge of terrorism. That this could be state-sponsored, with cross-border purpose, makes it a direct affront to the global order. Governments indulging in such practices must be held accountable. There must be no dilution in our zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism. Its financial aspects, in particular, should be exposed and should be countered.”Jaishnakar further defended India’s right to call out terrorism saying, “Friendship and goodwill cannot coexist with terrorism. And understandings premised on that will naturally be called into question. It is for the perpetrator of terrorism to mend its ways.”Jaishankar further addressed ongoing conflicts. Emphasising the broader global impact, he said, “Countries far from conflicts are being penalized for no fault of theirs. Those most impacted often have the least say. This assembly must face up to the true state of affairs. This year, we are witnessing a conflict in the Gulf, one that is exacerbating an already difficult situation. We remain deeply concerned over continuing hostilities.
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The targeting of commercial shipping and seafarers, transiting international waterways, is simply unacceptable. India calls upon all parties to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, ensure protection of civilians, and uninterrupted flow of energy and commerce.”Further quoting the Prime Minister’s stance on the matter, Jaishankar said, “As Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, endless war must give way now to an end to war. India supports ongoing initiatives to bring peace.”Additionally, he highlighted the imperative of safeguarding maritime crews and ensuring stable distribution channels for food grains and energy resources, affirming India’s readiness to assist in mitigating global food and energy security challenges.
