MoS Pabitra Margherita Addresses 32nd ARF, Slams Pakistan Over Terror Links

Representing India at the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita reaffirmed New Delhi’s firm commitment to the ARF process, emphasising the strategic importance of India’s Act East Policy and its broader Indo-Pacific vision.

Addressing the ministerial gathering, Margherita shared India’s perspectives on the shifting geopolitical landscape, underlining the need for collective responses to regional and global challenges. He particularly stressed the growing concerns over terrorism and reiterated India’s uncompromising zero-tolerance approach.

Speaking firmly on the issue, the Minister condemned countries that shelter terrorists or enable cross-border terrorism, calling on the international community to reject double standards. “Those who provide safe havens to terrorists must be isolated and held accountable,” Margherita said.

Highlighting the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, he asserted its direct linkages to Pakistan and dismissed Islamabad’s demand for a "neutral investigation" as disingenuous. “Such calls are nothing but a charade, given Pakistan’s lack of intent to dismantle its terror infrastructure,” he added.

The Minister’s remarks come at a time of heightened tension in the region and reflect India’s firm diplomatic stance on security, sovereignty, and cross-border terrorism, especially in multilateral forums like the ARF.

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