Central Asian Nations Condemn Pahalgam Attack, Back India
n a strong diplomatic show of support, the Foreign Ministers of Central Asian countries—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—joined India in unequivocally condemning the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which claimed 26 lives, was labeled a gross violation of international norms and a threat to regional stability.
The ministers jointly asserted that those responsible for organizing, financing, and supporting such acts of terrorism must be held accountable. They stressed the importance of denying safe havens to terrorists and preventing the use of extremist ideologies, proxy warfare, and cyber tools to spread radicalization or incite violence.
Counter-Terrorism Focus of India-Central Asia Dialogue
The condemnation was part of a broader outcome from the India-Central Asia Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue, held after a gap of nearly three and a half years. Hosted by India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, the meeting focused on counter-terrorism, regional security, and economic cooperation.
Participants emphasized full implementation of United Nations Security Council resolutions related to terrorism, the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, and Financial Action Task Force (FATF) norms. They pledged to strengthen cooperation under multilateral platforms and enhance intelligence-sharing, border security, and counter-radicalization programs.
Shared Vision for Regional Security and Stability
The foreign ministers reiterated their collective vision for a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, free from terrorism, narcotics, and foreign interference. Acknowledging the importance of Afghanistan for regional security, they agreed to maintain close consultation on developments there.
India reaffirmed its commitment as a reliable development partner for Central Asian nations, with increased focus on connectivity, infrastructure, and educational initiatives. Minister Jaishankar thanked the Central Asian bloc for their solidarity in condemning the Pahalgam attack and reaffirmed India’s dedication to promoting regional peace and shared prosperity.
The dialogue concluded with a united stance: terrorism in any form is unacceptable and must be countered with collective resolve. The deepening India-Central Asia engagement now stands as a pillar in the broader fight against terror and a cornerstone of stability in Eurasia.
