India has the right to defend itself against terrorism, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated on Friday, while strongly condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 civilians.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Berlin alongside India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Wadephul acknowledged India’s security concerns and supported its right to take countermeasures against terrorism. He also underlined the importance of maintaining the current ceasefire between India and Pakistan and stressed the need for bilateral dialogue to resolve ongoing tensions.
“Following military exchanges on both sides, India has every right to defend itself against terrorism. We deeply appreciate that the ceasefire continues to hold,” said Wadephul. Jaishankar, who is visiting Germany as part of his three-nation tour of Europe, firmly reiterated India's stance on terrorism. “India has zero tolerance for terrorism. We will never yield to nuclear blackmail,” he stated during the press briefing.
He also clarified that India remains committed to resolving issues with Pakistan solely through bilateral channels. “There should be no confusion anywhere about India’s position—dialogue with Pakistan will happen only bilaterally,” Jaishankar emphasized.
Welcoming Germany’s support, Jaishankar added, “We value Germany’s understanding that each country must be allowed to defend itself against terrorism.”
The statements come in the wake of a diplomatic campaign launched by India after the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described as a turning point. In response to the massacre, Modi announced a “new normal,” declaring that any future acts of cross-border terrorism would be treated as acts of war.
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