Germany Recognises India’s Right to Defend Itself Against Terrorism, Says EAM Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (24 May) said that Germany has recognised India's right to defend itself against terrorism following the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor, NDTV reported.

“When it comes to terrorism, today, there is virtually no country which would say they approve of what was done and won't condemn it,” he said.

“If I say I have the right to defend myself, my people and secure my country, much of the world will agree with me. Germany does. We are encouraged by the very early condemnation of the terrorist attack, as well as the clear message we got on May 7th and again today from Minister Wadephul that Germany recognises India's right to defend itself," he said during an interaction at the German Council on Foreign Relations.

He described the terror attack as part of a broader effort to destabilise India.

"This was meant to create a fear psychosis, destroy the tourism economy of Kashmir, and sow religious discord," he noted.

Jaishankar also pointed to the cross-border nature of the threat, stating that terrorism has long been used as a tool by India’s neighbour.

He added, "What we were responding to was terrorism, and when we responded, there was a lot of international understanding. We targeted terrorist headquarters and terror sites. Our campaign is against terrorism, and in this case, terrorists happen to be located in the country next door because that country, for many years, has used terrorism as a tool."

Marking 25 years of strategic partnership between India and Germany, Jaishankar outlined future cooperation in defence, talent mobility, digital technologies, and green growth.

“A good start would be defence and security... there is a realization in both countries that there is something that we have to offer to each other.”

He also emphasised the need for deeper India-EU ties, stating, “The global picture is very challenging... the partnership between India and Germany... has acquired an importance and a salience much more than it has had before.”

Also Read: Railway Growth In Bihar Gets Momentum With New Infra Launches, Jamalpur Upgrade And IRIMEE Excellence Plan