BRICS Parliamentary Forum Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack; Calls for Zero Tolerance and End To Cross-Border Terror

 New Delhi: In a joint declaration adopted at the end of the two day meeting, the BRICS Parliamentary Forum condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam and called to end cross border terrorism, terror financing and safe havens and demanded zero tolerance and end to double standards.

The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, concluded on Tuesday with the adoption of a joint declaration which formally reiterates member nations' dedication to the principles of the United Nations Charter, sovereign equality, mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and the peaceful settlement of international disputes.

The forum was united in condemning the “deliberate attacks” against civilians and civilian infrastructure during the ongoing conflict in West Asia and without naming the United States of America condemned the imposition of unilateral coercive measures in the form of economic sanctions on countries, while terming it “unlawful” which undermine international laws.

The forum expressed deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in the Middle East/West Asia and called for exercising maximum restraint. It also urged the nations to engage in dialogue and diplomacy to end the conflicts.

The terror attack of Pahalgam last year found a mention in the declaration as the countries reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and 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. We urge you to ensure zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering terrorism. 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,” the joint statement said.

The leaders said that they look forward to further deepening counter-terrorism cooperation and backed India's initiative for adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the United Nations framework.

The forum backed peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on the two-state solution, “with the two States living side by side, in peace and security, in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions, asserting the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, freedom, and an independent, sovereign State,” the joint statement said.

Earlier, delivering the valedictory address, Lok Sabha Speaker Mr Om Birla emphasised that global challenges can only be resolved through steadfast dialogue, mutual peace, and collaborative action rather than conflict. Highlighting the current global climate of instability, economic uncertainty, and regional conflicts, Mr Birla reiterated India’s core philosophy which is “permanent solutions are forged in dialogue, not war; in peace, not conflict; and in collaboration, rather than competition”.

"Global peace truly means security, respect, justice, and the assurance of a better future for everyone - especially the younger generation,” he stated, noting that coming generations will judge current leaders by the safety and prosperity of the world they leave behind,” Mr Birla said.

Mr Birla congratulated China, which assumes the BRICS chair for the year 2027, expressing full confidence that cooperation will continue to flourish under its leadership.