What Wishes Did EAM Jaishankar Convey on Europe Day?

New Delhi, May 9 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar conveyed his best wishes to Kaja Kallas, Vice-President of the European Commission, and the European Union (EU) on Europe Day, recognizing the ongoing development of the Strategic Partnership between India and the EU.

"Wishing EU High Representative/Vice President Kaja Kallas and the European Union a happy Europe Day. I value the consistent growth of our Strategic Partnership," EAM stated on X.

Previously, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, along with the European Union College of Commissioners, made a historic visit to India from February 27 to February 28. This marked the first collective visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India.

During this significant visit in February, the EU and India strengthened their strategic connections.

Europe Day, celebrated annually on May 9, honors peace and unity across Europe. The date commemorates the anniversary of the 'Schuman Declaration', a pivotal proposal from Robert Schuman, the French Foreign Minister, in 1950, which laid the groundwork for European cooperation. This proposal is widely regarded as the inception of what we now know as the European Union.

This year, the EU marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration and the 25th anniversary of the EU’s motto: United in Diversity.

In the meantime, as Pakistan launched a series of missiles towards Indian cities, escalating military tensions, EAM Jaishankar communicated with Kallas late Thursday, reaffirming India's unwavering commitment to counter any provocations decisively.

"Had discussions with EU High Representative/Vice President Kaja Kallas about the current developments. India has acted with restraint. Nevertheless, any escalation will be met with a robust response," EAM Jaishankar posted on X.

On Thursday, the European Union (EU) and its 27 member states strongly condemned the horrific Pahalgam terrorist attack, emphasizing that every nation has the right and responsibility to protect its citizens from acts of terrorism.

The EU asserted that terrorism can never be justified and that those accountable for the attack must face justice.

This statement followed the launch of Operation Sindoor by the Indian armed forces, targeting nine high-profile terror sites in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the brutal April 22 terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives.

"The EU is closely monitoring the escalating tensions in the region and the potential consequences, including the risk of further loss of life. The EU urges both parties to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and avoid further attacks to protect civilian lives on both sides," stated the EU.

"It is crucial for both India and Pakistan to engage in dialogue. Both nations must adhere to their obligations under international law and take every possible measure to safeguard civilian lives. The EU is committed to collaborating with all parties to de-escalate the situation," it added.

Last month, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also expressed her deepest condolences regarding the "vile" terror attack.

"The despicable terror attack in Pahalgam claimed numerous innocent lives. My heartfelt condolences to PM Narendra Modi and every Indian mourning today. Yet, I am confident that India's spirit is unyielding. You will endure this challenge, and Europe stands with you," she posted on X.