The Quad unequivocally condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on April 22 which claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, while injuring several others.
In a joint statement, the leaders said they condemn all acts of terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism, and renew our commitment to counterterrorism cooperation. “We express our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and extend our heartfelt wishes for a swift and full recovery to all those injured,” they said.
“We call for the perpetrators, organisers, and financiers of this reprehensible act to be brought to justice without any delay and urge all UN Member States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant UNSCRs, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in this regard,” the statement added.
EAM Jaishankar Meets US Secretary of State Marco Rubio
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday to strengthen the India-US bilateral relationship and exchange views on pressing regional and global developments. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting during Jaishankar’s ongoing visit to the United States from June 30 to July 2, at the invitation of Secretary Rubio.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar wrote, “A pleasure meeting US @SecRubio this afternoon, on the sidelines of Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting.”
The two leaders reviewed key aspects of the growing India-US partnership, with discussions focusing on trade, defence cooperation, critical and emerging technologies, connectivity, energy security, and mobility. They also shared their perspectives on geopolitical issues and regional stability.
During his visit, Jaishankar also held talks with US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth. In another post, he said: “Great to meet @SecDef Pete Hegseth in Washington DC today. Had a productive conversation on advancing the India-US defence partnership, building on growing convergences of interests, capabilities and responsibilities.”
The meetings are seen as part of India’s continued diplomatic push to deepen strategic ties with the United States amid shifting global power dynamics and regional security challenges, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.
