Urging nations to adopt an uncompromising stance against terrorism, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Saturday emphasized that societies targeted by terrorism have the right to defend themselves. Speaking at the 2nd India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (IAFMM) in New Delhi, Jaishankar highlighted the urgent need to strengthen international cooperation to combat what he called a “global scourge.”

“Cross-border terrorism is particularly unacceptable as it violates the fundamental principles of international relations and diplomacy. Societies targeted by terrorism will understandably exercise their right to defend themselves,” Jaishankar said, calling for zero-tolerance against terrorism as a universal norm. The meeting, co-hosted by India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is the first such India-Arab FMM in a decade and sees participation from all 22 Arab League member states.

Jaishankar pointed out that the meeting comes at a critical juncture, as the global order undergoes transformation due to politics, economics, technology, and demographic shifts. He stressed that developments in the Middle East, including the situation in Gaza, as well as conflicts in Sudan, Yemen, Lebanon, Libya, and Syria, have far-reaching consequences for India and the Arab world alike. The External Affairs Minister also referenced the Sharm-el-Sheikh Peace Summit in October 2025 and the subsequent UN Security Council Resolution 2803 as part of ongoing efforts to stabilize the region.

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Highlighting India’s longstanding partnership with Arab nations, Jaishankar noted that the collaboration extends across trade, energy, food security, technology, and education, with India hosting one of the largest expatriate communities in the region. He also detailed plans for contemporary cooperation in digital technology, space, start-ups, innovation, counter-terrorism, and parliamentary exchanges, while reinforcing the role of the India-Arab Cooperation Forum as a platform to translate positive sentiment into practical initiatives.

“Today’s deliberations will not only strengthen collective ties but also give a fillip to bilateral partnerships. We have launched the India-Arab Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture to complement ongoing bilateral activities and reinforce bonds between our nations,” Jaishankar said, reiterating India’s commitment to regional stability and global anti-terror collaboration.

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