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India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a strong message at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, directly addressing Pakistan's history of cross-border terrorism and its impact on its own society. Jaishankar, without explicitly naming Pakistan, stated that the 'ills' it 'sought to visit on others are now consuming its own society,' highlighting the internal repercussions of Pakistan's actions. He further emphasized that the resolution of long-standing issues between India and Pakistan hinges on two key factors: the vacation of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan's complete abandonment of its longstanding support for terrorism.
Jaishankar asserted that Pakistan's cross-border terrorism policy will never succeed and that it cannot expect to act with impunity. He directly linked consequences to actions, underscoring that the issue to be resolved is the relinquishment of illegally occupied Indian territory by Pakistan and the cessation of its support for terrorism. This statement served as a clear demand for Pakistan to address its actions and take concrete steps towards resolving the long-standing dispute over Kashmir.
In a veiled criticism of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Jaishankar highlighted the dangers of unviable projects, warning that they lead to increased debt levels and potentially undermine sovereignty and territorial integrity. He argued that connectivity initiatives should be undertaken collaboratively and not be used as a means to exert strategic influence. This statement reflects India's concerns regarding the BRI's potential to increase Chinese influence in the region and its impact on regional stability.
Jaishankar's speech addressed the global context, acknowledging the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the conflict in Gaza. He also highlighted the anxieties arising from technological advancements and the increasing frequency and intensity of climate events. He expressed concern over the erosion of trust and the breakdown of processes within the international system, stating that some countries have extracted more than they have contributed, weakening the system.
Jaishankar's speech at the UN General Assembly serves as a clear articulation of India's position on key issues affecting regional and global stability. His strong condemnation of Pakistan's terrorism and his criticism of China's BRI demonstrate India's commitment to promoting peace, stability, and development in the region. The speech also highlights India's growing role as a responsible global power and its commitment to a rules-based international order.
Source: 'This Is Karma': At UN, Jaishankar Says Ghosts Of Pakistan's Misdeeds Now Haunting Its Own Society