Brussels: S Jaishankar attends EU-India Strategic Dialogue with Kaja Kallas, highlights zero-terrorism issue

"To make a few points about combating terrorism. We strongly believe that there must be zero tolerance for terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In that context, it is also essential that we never yield to nuclear blackmail," Jaishankar said during a press conference which he jointly hosted with EU High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas.

Jaishankar attended the first Strategic Dialogue between India and the European Union in Brussels.

"I believe we had a very open and productive meeting here today, which is still continuing. We will go back to our discussions after this, and we have touched on defence and security, on maritime security, on Cyber, on Space, as you heard from the High Representative," he said.

De-Risking International Economy

Jaishankar said stabilising and de-risking the international economy is today a strategic priority.

"This has many dimensions including building more resilient and reliable supply chains, as well as increasing trust and transparency in digital interactions," he said.

"Creating stronger economic and technology partnerships between major players, we believe, has acquired even greater value. It is with that perspective that we support the goal of concluding an ambitious and balanced India-EU FTA by the end of the year. We also see great benefit in holding an early meeting of the Trade and Technology Council," the Indian Minister said.

Jaishankar Meets Ursula von der Leyen

Jaishankar also met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, when he welcomed her strong condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

Pakistan-backed terrorists attacked and killed 26 people, mostly non-Muslim Indian tourists, in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam town on April 22, an incident that triggered widespread condemnation.

Jaishankar wrote on X: " Discussed efforts underway to deepen the India - EU partnership. Agreed on the potential benefits of stronger cooperation in trade, technology, connectivity and security for both our regions."