India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, rebuked Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, for his comments about cross-border attacks during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers’ meeting in Goa. Jaishankar stated that “victims of terrorism do not sit with perpetrators of terrorism”. He also criticised Pakistan’s credibility and foreign exchange reserves, which have dropped by 16.1% to USD 3.09 billion in February.
Jaishankar clarified that Bhutto Zardari’s attendance at the SCO meeting was part of multilateral diplomacy and should not be treated as anything more than that. He also pointed out that Bhutto Zardari’s positions were called out and countered, including at the SCO meeting itself. Jaishankar disagreed with Bhutto Zardari’s statement about not weaponising terrorism for diplomatic point scoring, calling it interesting as it “unconsciously reveals a mindset”.
Jaishankar emphasised that India is countering terrorism and defending itself. He stated that India is politically and diplomatically exposing Pakistan before the world as a victim of terrorism. Jaishankar also criticised Bhutto Zardari’s statement about peace, stating that terrorism cannot be destiny.
In conclusion, Jaishankar strongly objected to Bhutto Zardari’s comments and called out Pakistan’s support for terrorism. He highlighted India’s efforts to counter terrorism and defend itself against cross-border attacks.
