Rio de Janeiro/New Delhi: Terming the Pahalgam terror attack as a direct assault on the soul, identity, and dignity of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 17th BRICS Summit today thanked the friendly countries that stood with India and expressed support and condolences.
In his statement at the BRICS session on Peace and Security at Rio de Janeiro, PM Modi said that condemning terrorism must be a matter of principle, and not of convenience, and there must be no hesitation in imposing sanctions on terrorists. The PM said:
“Terrorism is the most serious challenge facing humanity today. India recently endured a brutal and cowardly terrorist attack. The terrorist attack in Pahalgam on 22nd April was a direct assault on the soul, identity, and dignity of India.
“This attack was not just a blow to India but to the entire humanity. In this hour of grief and sorrow, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the friendly countries who stood with us and expressed support and condolences.
“Condemning terrorism must be a matter of principle, and not just of convenience. If our response depends on where or against whom the attack occurred, it shall be a betrayal of humanity itself,” he said.
The PM also said: “The victims and supporters of terrorism cannot be treated equally. For the sake of personal or political gain, giving silent consent to terrorism or supporting terrorists or terrorism, should never be acceptable under any circumstances.”
Referring to the ongoing Middle East tensions and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the PM said that India firmly believes that no matter how difficult the circumstances, the path of peace is the only option for the good of humanity.
He said that India is the land of Lord Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi, and there is no place for war and violence.
“India supports every effort that takes the world away from division and conflict and leads us towards dialogue, cooperation, and coordination; and increases solidarity and trust. In this direction, we are committed to cooperation and partnership with all friendly countries.”
He invited all the member nations to India next year for the BRICS Summit to be held under India’s chairmanship.
In a post on X, the PM said:
“At the Session on ‘Peace and Security and Reform of Global Governance’ during the BRICS Summit, reiterated India’s commitment to the values of peace and brotherhood. Afterall, world peace and security are the foundations of our shared interests and future.
“There must be absolutely no hesitation in imposing sanctions against terrorists. We cannot weigh victims of terrorism and its supporters on the same scale. Any silent support or approval to terrorism for personal or political interests must be unacceptable.
“India, being the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Gautam Buddha believes that no matter how difficult the circumstances are, the path of peace is the best option for the welfare of humanity. And, India will do everything possible in this direction.”
The MEA spokesperson said in a post on X:
“PM @narendramodi delivered his address at the session on ‘Peace & Security’ during the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
“PM stated that terrorism was a grave threat to humanity and called upon BRICS to strengthen the global fight against the menace.
“Thanking countries for strongly condemning the Pahalgam terror attack and expressing solidarity for India, he urged zero tolerance for terrorism.
“He reaffirmed that India stands for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts and achieve global peace.”
