India Sends Strong Message at East Asia Summit: No Compromise on Self-Defense Against Terrorism

National news: Speaking at the 20th East Asia Summit in Kuala Lumpur, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a blunt message. He said terrorism remains a permanent and destructive threat to humanity. India will never compromise on its right to self-defense in this fight. He insisted that terrorism knows no boundaries and the world cannot afford hesitation. Jaishankar urged leaders to unite and ensure that terrorists find no safe havens. His words reflected India’s uncompromising stand on protecting national and global security.

Why zero tolerance is essential

Jaishankar told global leaders that compromising on counter-terror capabilities is unacceptable. He emphasized that terrorism not only destabilizes countries but destroys innocent lives every day. The only sustainable solution is zero tolerance at the international level. India’s message was clear: fighting terrorism is not about politics but survival. By underlining this principle, Jaishankar sought to make the summit a call for action. He stressed that the global community must stop drawing distinctions between “good” and “bad” terrorism.

Concerns over global conflicts

In his address, Jaishankar also spoke about ongoing global conflicts such as Gaza and Ukraine. He warned that these disputes are not only creating humanitarian crises but also disrupting food security. Energy supplies are under severe strain, while global trade faces massive obstacles. These conflicts, he said, will have long-term consequences for the international community. India supports peace efforts in Gaza and calls for early resolution of the Ukraine war. Jaishankar reminded leaders that wars bring destruction, not solutions.

India’s different approach

India has consistently argued that terrorism and global conflicts cannot be viewed separately. Jaishankar stressed that unless the world unites, defeating terrorism will remain impossible. India’s approach is based on clarity: peace and security can only be ensured by eradicating terror networks. That is why India repeats the call for zero tolerance at every international platform. His message was that hesitation helps terrorists, while determination weakens them. India’s policy remains rooted in protecting lives and ensuring regional stability.

ASEAN partnership in focus

Jaishankar praised the role of ASEAN in maintaining peace and stability in the region. He underlined that India’s partnership with ASEAN strengthens regional cooperation and enhances resilience. India is an active supporter of East Asia Summit activities and future plans. Recently, India hosted a workshop on energy efficiency and a conference of higher education institutions. These initiatives show that India is not just focusing on security but also on sustainable development. The minister stressed that partnership is the key to progress.

India’s broader vision

For India, the East Asia Summit is not just a forum for discussions but a platform for decisive action. Jaishankar explained that the challenges the world faces today require collective solutions. From terrorism to climate change and conflicts, cooperation is the only path forward. India is determined to play a leading role in shaping this cooperation. The minister made it clear that India will continue to push for policies that ensure both peace and prosperity. This balanced approach strengthens India’s global credibility.

Will the world follow India’s call?

Jaishankar’s address left a powerful question hanging—will the world match India’s resolve? Terrorism is a shared threat, and no nation is truly safe until all act together. India has shown its uncompromising position, but success depends on global unity. Zero tolerance must become more than a slogan; it must guide real policies. The summit reflected India’s seriousness, but global action is still uncertain. For now, India has made its stance unambiguous and left the ball in the world’s court.