Jaishankar tells Polish counterpart: Don’t Support Terrorism, Criticises 'Selective Targeting'

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks on Monday in New Delhi with Poland's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski and said that selectively targeting India over its stance on the Ukraine war is unfair and unjustified.

The meeting, meant to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties, took a sharp turn when Jaishankar raised concerns about terrorism and international pressure on India’s foreign policy.

Why did Jaishankar say Poland should show "zero tolerance" or terrorism?

Jaishankar told the Polish leader that New Delhi expects all nations to take a firm position against terrorism. 

External Affairs Minister said Poland should show "zero tolerance" for terrorism and make sure it does nothing that could help terrorist networks near India’s borders. 

The strong language came after Poland and Pakistan had issued a joint statement last year that mentioned the Kashmir issue. India viewed that as interference in its internal affairs. 

What did Jaishankar say in opening remarks?

Jaishankar in his opening remark at the bilateral meeting said that "Deputy Prime Minister, you are no stranger to our region and are certainly familiar with the longstanding challenge of cross-border terrorism. I hope at this meeting to discuss some of your recent travels to the region. Poland should display zero tolerance for terrorism and not help fuel the terrorist infrastructure in our neighbourhood."

How did Poland respond?

Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski nodded in agreement and also called the need to counter cross-border terrorism

Sikorski acknowledged the concern on terrorism and said Poland agrees on the importance of combating trans-border terror threats. He noted that Poland itself has faced attacks and stressed that cooperation on security is vital. The Polish leader also expressed hope that both countries can further deepen their growing economic and strategic relationship. 

Selective Targeting of India with tariffs?

At the same time, Jaishankar criticised what he called “selective targeting” of India over its position on the Russia-Ukraine war and related trade disputes, including tariffs on Russian oil that affect New Delhi. Jaishankar said these measures were unfair and unjustified, and not limited only to tariff actions. 

"In the recent past, both 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. 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 said.

Responding to Jaishankar's remarks on tariffs, Sikoski said, "I also completely agree with you on the unfairness of selective targeting, by tariffs. And we in Europe know something about that. Also, we fear that this is progressing to a global trade turbulence. We are hoping that India will continue to stay engaged in Europe. We've noticed that you are establishing embassies everywhere in Europe, which means that you are serious about relations with the European Union."

What’s next for India-Poland ties?

Both sides emphasised the importance of strengthening ties in trade, investment and cultural exchanges. Poland is among India’s top trading partners in Central Europe, with bilateral trade growing significantly in recent years. The talks on Monday reflected a mix of shared interests and frank diplomacy, as New Delhi made its red lines clear on regional security and foreign policy.