Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asserted that condemning terrorism should be a matter of principle, not just convenience, highlighting the global threat it poses to humanity. Speaking at the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Modi emphasized the need for a united global stance against terrorism, advocating for decisive action and sanctions against those who perpetrate or support such acts.
Modi specifically referenced the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 tourists were killed, calling it a direct strike on the "soul, identity, and dignity" of India and a blow to humanity as a whole. He expressed gratitude to nations that stood in solidarity with India, condemning the attack and offering support.
The Prime Minister stressed that there should be no double standards when it comes to addressing terrorism. He warned against differentiating between terrorist acts based on the location or the victims, stating that such an approach would be a "betrayal against humanity". Modi called for the global community to recognize terrorism as a universal threat, irrespective of geopolitical considerations.
Modi was critical of those who provide direct or indirect support to terrorism, asserting that they must be held accountable. He argued against weighing the victims and supporters of terrorism on the same scale, emphasizing that "giving silent consent to terrorism and supporting terror or terrorists should not be acceptable under any circumstances". He further stated that there should be no difference between words and actions when it comes to combating terrorism and that imposing sanctions against terrorists should happen without hesitation.
Alluding to Pakistan without explicitly naming the country, Modi conveyed India's perspective that it is a victim of terrorism, while Pakistan supports it as a state policy. He thanked countries that have condemned the Pahalgam attack, indirectly criticizing Pakistan's actions.
The BRICS Leaders' Declaration, adopted at the summit, reflected India's concerns regarding cross-border terrorism and the need for global governance reforms. The declaration condemned the Pahalgam attack and reaffirmed the BRICS nations' commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing, and safe havens.
In addition to addressing terrorism, Modi touched upon other global issues, including the humanitarian situation in Gaza and ongoing disputes and tensions in West Asia and Europe. He reiterated India's commitment to peace, emphasizing the nation's belief that dialogue, cooperation, and coordination are the best paths towards global welfare. He highlighted India's civilizational ethos, rooted in the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and Gautam Buddha, underscoring the country's dedication to peace and non-violence.
