How Did EAM Jaishankar Respond to EU's Condemnation of the Pahalgam Terror Attack?
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Synopsis
In a significant diplomatic meeting, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar praised the European Commission's President Ursula von der Leyen for her strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. This meeting signifies enhanced cooperation between India and the EU, focusing on trade, technology, and security. Discover the implications of their partnership in combating terrorism.
Key Takeaways
- Meeting between EAM Jaishankar and Ursula von der Leyen highlights strong EU condemnation of terrorism.
- Strengthened India-EU partnership in trade, technology, and security is crucial.
- Commitment to the India-EU Free Trade Agreement is reinforced.
- Joint efforts in combating terrorism are emphasized.
- EU's support for India's right to protect its citizens from terror.
Brussels, June 10 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, on Tuesday in Brussels. He expressed his gratitude for her firm condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22, highlighting the EU's solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism. Both leaders recognized the importance of enhancing collaboration in trade, technology, connectivity, and security to strengthen the India-European Union partnership.
“It was a pleasure to meet with President Ursula von der Leyen this morning. I appreciated her strong condemnation of the Pahalgam attack and her commitment to combatting terrorism. We discussed ongoing efforts to fortify the India-EU partnership and agreed on the significant advantages of increased cooperation in various sectors,” the EAM shared on X following their meeting.
Ursula von der Leyen also warmly welcomed EAM Jaishankar, emphasizing the growing collaboration between the European Union and India.
“Welcome, my friend S. Jaishankar. The strategic partnership between the EU and India continues to strengthen. We are working on a Strategic Agenda focused on growth, an ambitious Free Trade Agreement, and advancements in technology and defense. I look forward to finalizing this with Prime Minister Modi at our upcoming Summit,” the EU chief posted on X.
The External Affairs Minister is on an official tour of France, the EU, and Belgium from June 8 to June 14 to further enhance India's diplomatic relationships and invigorate ongoing collaborations in various fields.
As he departed from New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs underscored the strengthened India-European Union strategic partnership over the years, which received a significant boost with the inaugural visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February.
“During this visit, the EAM will participate in a Strategic Dialogue with Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative and Vice President, and engage with senior officials from both the European Commission and the European Parliament, in addition to interacting with think tanks and media,” the MEA announced regarding the EAM's tour.
Recently, at the Italy-India Business Forum during his visit to Italy, Piyush Goyal, the Union Commerce and Industry Minister, reiterated India's commitment to hasten the India-EU Free Trade Agreement.
The European Union and its 27 member states had earlier unequivocally condemned the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, supporting India’s decisive response and asserting that every state has both the duty and the right to protect its citizens from terrorist acts. The EU stated that terrorism is never justifiable, and those responsible must face justice.
Earlier this year, Ursula von der Leyen, alongside the EU College of Commissioners, visited India from February 27 to 28, marking a historic first for the EU College of Commissioners in India. This visit reinforced the strategic ties between the EU and India.
As Von der Leyen highlighted the need for stronger EU-India ties in a world of increasing complexity, Prime Minister Modi and the European Commission’s President also concurred on accelerating the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement by year-end.
During the Commission’s visit, both leaders affirmed that the EU-India Strategic Partnership has provided substantial benefits to both their populations and the global community. They committed to elevating this partnership further, building on 20 years of the India-EU Strategic Partnership and over 30 years of cooperation under the India-EC Cooperation Agreement.
Point of View
The strong condemnation from the EU highlights the importance of international solidarity in combating terrorism. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's discussions with Ursula von der Leyen signify a crucial step towards enhancing cooperation between India and the European Union, reinforcing our commitment to security and mutual growth.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of EAM Jaishankar's visit to Brussels?
EAM Jaishankar visited Brussels to meet with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, where they discussed the strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and explored ways to enhance cooperation in trade, technology, and security.
What did Ursula von der Leyen say about the EU-India partnership?
Ursula von der Leyen expressed that the EU-India strategic partnership is strengthening and that they are working on a Strategic Agenda focusing on growth, technology, and security.
What did the EU declare regarding the Pahalgam terror attack?
The EU unequivocally condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and supported India's response, stating that terrorism can never be justified and that those responsible must be brought to justice.
What is the significance of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement?
The India-EU Free Trade Agreement aims to enhance economic ties and cooperation between India and the EU, providing mutual benefits in trade, investment, and innovation.
How has the India-EU partnership evolved over the years?
The India-EU partnership has strengthened significantly over the years through collaboration in various sectors, highlighted by recent high-level meetings and the first-ever visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India.
