Jaishankar Urges Poland to Adopt Zero-Tolerance Stance on Terrorism
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a strong message to his Polish counterpart Radoslaw Sikorski during a meeting in New Delhi. He emphasized that Poland should demonstrate zero-tolerance for terrorism. Jaishankar specifically warned against actions that could fuel terrorist infrastructure in India's immediate neighbourhood.
Poland's Growing Ties with Pakistan Under Scrutiny
This conversation comes at a time when Warsaw is actively seeking to strengthen its relationship with Pakistan. Poland has been working to expand trade, defence, and energy cooperation with Islamabad. Sikorski himself visited Pakistan in October last year to further enhance bilateral ties.
Jaishankar reminded Sikorski that he is familiar with this region and its challenges. "You are no stranger to this part of the world," Jaishankar noted. He pointed out the longstanding issue of cross-border terrorism that India faces. The minister's direct statement was clear: "Poland should display zero-tolerance for terrorism and not help fuel the terrorist infrastructure in our neighbourhood."
India's Disagreement with Europe on Ukraine War Surfaces
The meeting also highlighted the ongoing discord between India and several European nations regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Jaishankar openly addressed what he described as selective targeting of India on the Ukraine issue. He stated firmly that such targeting is both unfair and unjustified.
When Sikorski, who also serves as Poland's deputy prime minister, attempted to deflect the conversation by suggesting Jaishankar might be referring to Trump-era tariffs, the Indian minister corrected him. Jaishankar clarified that the issue of selective targeting extends beyond just tariffs. "I think there have been other forms of selective targeting. But we will discuss that," he responded after Sikorski raised the topic.
Poland's Criticism and India's Response
Poland is among the European countries that have consistently criticized India's position on the Ukraine war and its trade relations with Russia. India has countered these criticisms by pointing out what it calls "double standards" within the European Union.
Indian officials have noted that the EU continues to trade with Russia in various sectors, including energy, fertilisers, and other commodities. Jaishankar referenced previous discussions held in New York last September and in Paris this January. "I have candidly shared with you our views on the Ukraine conflict and its implications," he told Sikorski.
In his opening remarks, Jaishankar reiterated his position. "While doing so, I have also repeatedly underlined that the selective targeting of India is both unfair and unjustified. I do so again today," he stated clearly.
Background of Recent Statements
Just a day before this meeting, the Polish leader made strong remarks in Jaipur. He attacked Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that Russia cannot be trusted. This comment adds context to the ongoing diplomatic exchanges between the two nations.
The discussions between Jaishankar and Sikorski covered multiple sensitive topics. Terrorism and the Ukraine conflict remain key points of discussion in India's foreign policy engagements with European partners.
