By The Sampadak Express
Germany has voiced strong support for India’s right to defend itself against terrorism following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April 2022 that claimed the lives of 26 civilians. In a joint press conference held in Berlin alongside Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul condemned the attack and reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to counter-terrorism cooperation with India.“
We were appalled by the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22. We condemn this heinous act in the strongest possible terms. Our sympathies lie with the victims and their families,” said Wadephul. He emphasized Germany’s long-standing partnership with India in the global fight against terrorism and expressed an intention to deepen this collaboration.
Highlighting India’s right to self-defense, the German minister stated, “India, of course, has every right to defend itself against terrorism. We appreciate that a ceasefire is now in place and urge all parties to maintain stability and pursue dialogue to resolve conflicts through bilateral means.”
He added, “Germany will always support the global fight against terrorism. It has no place in the world, and we stand with those who are compelled to combat it.”
Minister Jaishankar, who is currently on an official visit to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany from May 19 to 24, reiterated India’s firm stance on terrorism and sent a pointed message to Pakistan. “India has zero tolerance for terrorism and will never give in to nuclear blackmail. We will continue to deal with Pakistan bilaterally. There should be no ambiguity on this matter,” he stated.
Jaishankar acknowledged Germany’s solidarity in the wake of the Pahalgam attack and appreciated Berlin’s understanding of India’s position. “We had a constructive conversation on May 7, when we initiated Operation Sindoor. The German government was supportive even before that. Minister Wadephul conveyed that every nation has the right to defend itself against terrorism.”
Earlier in the day, Jaishankar met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s greetings, reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and Germany.
The visit underscores India’s diplomatic efforts to consolidate international support in its fight against cross-border terrorism and to ensure global solidarity in countering extremist threats.
