‘This is India which will not be pressured, if we have to make a choice …’: Jaishankar

NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Sunday said that “a terrorist is a terrorist” regardless of language or explanation, and terrorism should never be justified or defended based on linguistic or cultural differences.
Jaishankar’s remarks came during his interaction with the Indian community members in Singapore.
Jaishankar highlighted the importance of diplomacy in reconciling differing viewpoints on sensitive issues such as terrorism, underscoring the need to distinguish genuine differences from excuses or justifications.
“It’s also natural that there will be different viewpoints. And what diplomacy is about is to find a way of reconciling it and coming to some kind of agreement,” he said.
“You can take it in any language, but a terrorist is a terrorist in any language. Never allow something like terrorism to be excused or defended because they’re using a different language or a different explanation,” he added.
Underlining India’s commitment to global service, Jaishankar mentioned India’s active role in combating piracy in the Indian Ocean and responding to crises, showcasing India’s responsible and proactive stance on global issues. The external affairs minister also highlighted India’s accelerated infrastructure development and its role as a global friend.
“This is India which will not be pressured, which will state its mind. If it has to make a choice, we will make a choice for the welfare of our citizens … So, the idea is of much stronger, more capable India and willing to take the tough course,” he said.
Jaishankar assured that this is an India which looks after its citizens and people of Indian origins.
“As more and more Indians settle in different parts of the world, it is our responsibility to secure them, to ensure their wellbeing if they are in a difficult stage, to bring them home,” he said.