External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s UNGA speech asserted India’s stance on Pakistan’s cross-border terrorism, insisting on modifications to the Indus Water Treaty and stating that future responses to Pakistan’s provocations will be robust. Jaishankar indicated that cross-border terrorism must end before any bilateral talks can resume, marking a shift in India’s diplomatic strategy towards Pakistan.
During his recent address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a decisive message concerning Pakistan’s longstanding antagonism towards India. His comments came amidst India’s push for modifications to the 1960 Indus Water Treaty, which has been jeopardized by ongoing cross-border terrorism originating from Pakistani territories. Jaishankar made it clear that any actions taken by Pakistan would prompt a robust response from India, emphasizing that military retaliation is not the only course of action available. The backdrop of Jaishankar’s speech is crucial; it follows India’s formal request to amend the Indus Water Treaty, citing persistently destabilizing terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir that have hindered India’s ability to fully exercise its rights under the treaty. As Pakistan has not yet responded to India’s notification sent on August 30, 2024, Jaishankar’s remarks underscore India’s firm stance on this critical issue. He highlighted the duplicity of Pakistan’s leadership, particularly referencing remarks made by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who attempted to conflate the situations in Gaza and Kashmir. In a counter to this narrative, Jaishankar instructed a junior diplomat to dismantle the link between these issues and asserted the falsehoods present in Pakistan’s claims. Moreover, he noted that Pakistan’s economic struggles are fundamentally tied to its increasing religious radicalization, stating that the country has been reduced to “a pauper state” as a result of its own actions. Jaishankar’s assertions were further directed at foreshadowing his upcoming visit to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, slated for October 15-16, indicating that cross-border terrorism must cease as a precondition for any potential bilateral discussions. He is clearly delineating the Modi government’s approach – one that lacks any illusions regarding Pakistan’s double-faced strategy and which vouches for a response that will be unwavering and multidimensional. This speech reflects a broader Indian strategy to assert its position at international forums and to dissuade Pakistan from its habitual use of diplomatic platforms to agitate against India, assuring that any forthcoming communication would be notably stern and unapologetic. In sum, Jaishankar’s address at the UNGA has reaffirmed India’s commitment to countering Pakistani aggression, particularly in relation to Kashmir, while making clear the Indian government’s understanding of Pakistan’s tactical duplicity. India’s future diplomatic engagements will be characterized more by assertive stances rather than passive diplomacy, signaling a shift in how India intends to handle Pakistan’s provocations.
The topic addressed by S. Jaishankar revolves around the complex and tense relationship between India and Pakistan, which has been historically marked by territorial disputes and calls for dialogue. The 1960 Indus Water Treaty serves as a critical framework governing the use of transboundary waters between the two nations; however, it has come under scrutiny due to Pakistan’s continued support for militant activities that threaten India’s national security. As both nations approach dialogues in an international context, the need for a reevaluation of agreements like the Indus Water Treaty has become paramount, especially in light of increasing tensions in regions like Jammu and Kashmir. Jaishankar’s speech is pivotal as it signals a turning point in India’s approach towards Pakistan, highlighting a readiness to redefine its responses and set conditions for future negotiations.
In conclusion, S. Jaishankar’s address at the UNGA encapsulates a clear warning to Pakistan regarding its double-game in diplomatic arenas and its sustained terrorist activities against India. Through his speech, Jaishankar has not only reaffirmed India’s stance on its rights related to the Indus Water Treaty but also established a stringent precondition for any meaningful dialogue with Pakistan. The Modi government’s increased assertiveness demonstrates a notable shift in India’s foreign policy approach towards its neighbor, characterized by a refusal to tolerate provocations and a commitment to reclaim sovereignty over its occupied territories.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
