New Delhi:In a strongly worded statement, India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, indirectly criticised Pakistan, stating that India cannot have a meeting in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) as one of its members continues to engage in acts of terrorism, adding that India will not tolerate a situation where “terrorism happens by night and trade happens by day.”
During an event at the India International Centre, Jaishankar addressed the lack of progress within SAARC, attributing it to one member’s failure to meet the basic requirements of responsible membership. He stressed that acts of terrorism cannot coexist with cooperation and called for recognition of the seriousness of these issues. Jaishankar had also previously blamed Pakistan for SAARC’s inactivity, linking it to Pakistan’s perceived tolerance for cross-border terrorism in its dealings with neighbouring countries.
Speaking at the same event, Jaishankar discussed India’s relations with China, highlighting the unsettled state of the border and the absence of normalcy in the region. While acknowledging China’s significance as a neighbour and a major power, he emphasised the need for a relationship based on mutual understanding and cooperation.
In a comparison between India’s diplomatic ties with China and the United States, Jaishankar expressed satisfaction with the strong relationship with the US, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent successful state visit as a significant milestone. He also emphasised the strength of India’s relationship with Russia and warned against undermining its importance. While acknowledging occasional challenges, Jaishankar highlighted the enduring and robust partnership with Russia, emphasising the need to broaden the scope of cooperation beyond defence dependencies and strengthen economic ties.
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