The BRICS leaders condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and called for “combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing, and safe havens.”
This statement was included in a declaration adopted during the ongoing BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday evening. The declaration did not name any specific country, nor did it directly refer to Pakistan regarding cross-border terrorism.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025, during which 26 people were killed… We urge the need to ensure zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering terrorism,” said the declaration, amplifying India’s stand as conveyed by the multi-party political delegation sent to world capitals, headed by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor.
“We recall the need for an expeditious finalisation and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the United Nations framework and call for concerted action against all UN-designated terrorists and terrorist entities,” stated the resolution.
What Indian PM Said
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, addressed the BRICS session on peace and security and said—referring to the Pahalgam attack—“…this was a direct attack on the soul, identity, and dignity of India… Giving silent consent to terrorism, or supporting terror or terrorists for personal or political gains, should not be accepted under any circumstances. There should be no hesitation in imposing sanctions against terrorists.”
“Terrorism has become the most serious challenge for humanity. Recently, India faced an inhumane and cowardly terrorist attack on April 22. The terrorist attack in Pahalgam was a direct assault on the soul, identity, and dignity of India. This attack was not only a blow to India but to all of humanity. In this hour of grief, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the friendly countries who stood with us, who expressed their support and condolences,” he added.
“…Condemning terrorism should be a principle, not just a convenience. If we first see in which country the attack took place or against whom, then it would be a betrayal of humanity. There should be no hesitation in imposing sanctions against terrorists. Victims and supporters of terrorism cannot be weighed on the same scale for personal or political gain. Giving silent consent to terrorism or supporting terror or terrorists should never be acceptable. There must be no difference between words and actions when it comes to terrorism. If we cannot ensure this, then the question naturally arises—are we truly serious about fighting terrorism?” said Prime Minister Modi during his speech.
The Prime Minister was addressing a session on ‘Forms of Global Governance’ when he stated that two-thirds of humanity still lack proper representation in global institutions built in the 20th century. He emphasized that many countries, like India, play a key role in today’s global economy but are still not given a seat at the decision-making table.
