With global leaders rallying behind India in the wake of the terror attack in which 26 people were killed, China on Wednesday came out in support of India and said they “oppose terrorism of all forms”. Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong said, “Shocked by the attack in Pahalgam and condemn (it). Deep condolences for the victims and sincere sympathies to the injured and the bereaved families. Oppose terrorism of all forms.”
France President Emmanuel Macron also condemned the attack and extended his condolences. “A heinous attack has struck India, claiming the lives of dozens of men and women from all walks of life. We share the profound sorrow of the victims’ families, to whom I extend my heartfelt condolences,” he said.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that the horrific terrorist attack in Kashmir was “utterly devastating”. “My thoughts are with those affected, their loved ones, and the people of India,” he said on X.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called the attack in Kashmir “utterly devastating”. “My thoughts are with those affected, their loved ones, and the people of India,” Scholz said.
The European Union also pledged its support to India. EU President Ursula von der Leyen said that the “vile terror attack in Pahalgam today stole so many innocent lives”. “Yet I know that India’s spirit is unbreakable. You will stand strong in this ordeal. And Europe will stand with you,” she said in a post on X.
Messages pledging support to India and condemnation poured in from neighbouring countries — Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal and Afghanistan. A statement by Afghanistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson was issued by its Mumbai consulate condemning the attack and expressed sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives. “Such acts threaten the security and stability of the region,” it said.
Maldives, with whom India saw a chill in ties a couple of years ago, but witnessed a turnaround later, also came out to “strongly condemn the terrorist attack in the city of Pahalgam”. “Terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is a threat to peace, security and human dignity. People must have the freedom to live, travel, and explore the world without fear,” said Maldives Foreign Minister Abdullah Khaleel.
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Bangladesh also strongly condemned the terror attack and extended deepest condolences to the families of the victims. A statement issued by the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reiterated its commitment to the global fight against terrorism.
Nepal PM K P Sharma Oli also expressed condolences, while also noted with concern the possible loss of one of its citizens. “Deepest condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Nepal stands firmly with India & strongly condemns any & all acts of terrorism. Close coordination is established to verify reports of a Nepali national among the victims & will provide all necessary assistance,” Oli said Wednesday.
A partner on the Quad grouping, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “There is no justification for this violence and Australia condemns it.” Albanese is slated to visit India later this year for the key Quad Summit, along with US President Trump, and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. “Our hearts go out to the injured, to those mourning loved ones and to everyone in Australia touched by this terrible news,” Albanese said.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned the “armed attack” in Pahalgam and stressed that attacks against civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances.
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On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump had dialled PM Narendra Modi, assuring support in the fight against terror. Italian PM Giorgia Meloni and Russian President Vladimir Putin also extended their support.
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