BRICS sends strong message on terror: Pahalgam attack condemned in New Delhi declaration

In the declaration, BRICS leaders said they "express strong condemnation of any acts of terrorism as criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, whenever, wherever and by whomsoever committed."

"We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, during which 26 people were killed and many more injured," the statement said.

The BRICS leaders reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terror financing and the provision of safe havens.

"We reiterate that terrorism should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group and that all those involved in terrorist activities and their support must be held accountable and brought to justice in accordance with relevant national and international law," the declaration said.

In a strong message, the leaders called for zero tolerance towards terrorism and opposed double standards in efforts to counter the threat.

"We emphasize the primary responsibility of States in combating terrorism and that global efforts to prevent and counter terrorist threats must fully comply with their obligations under international law, including the Charter of the UN, in particular the purposes and principles thereof, and relevant international conventions and protocols," the declaration said.

The BRICS leaders also stressed the need for counter-terrorism efforts to remain consistent with international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, as applicable.

"We welcome the activities of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) and its five Subgroups based upon the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan and the CTWG Position Paper. We look forward to further deepening counter-terrorism cooperation," the declaration said.

At least 26 people were killed after gunmen attacked them in Pahalgam during the peak tourism season on April 22, 2025.