UNSC Open Debate on 

‘Peace and security through preventive diplomacy: A common objective to all UN principal organs’

[Tuesday, 16 November 2021; 1000 hrs EDT/ 2030 hrs IST]

Second Statement 

by 

Dr. Kajal Bhat, Counsellor

Mr. President,

I am constrained to take the floor once again to respond to some frivolous remarks made by the representative of Pakistan earlier today.

While statements such as those deserve our collective contempt for those who utter repeated falsehoods, I am taking the floor to set the record straight. 

This is not the first time the representative of Pakistan has misused platforms provided by the UN to propagate false and malicious propaganda against my country, and seeking in vain to divert the world’s attention from the sad state of his country where terrorists enjoy free pass while the lives of ordinary people, especially those belonging to the minority communities, are turned upside down.

Mr. President,

Member States are aware that Pakistan has an established history and policy of harbouring, aiding and actively supporting terrorists. This is a country which has been globally recognized as one openly supporting, training, financing and arming terrorists as a matter of State policy. It holds the ignoble record of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the UN Security Council.

Mr. President,

I would like to be categorical about India’s position. The entire Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. This includes the areas that are under the illegal occupation of Pakistan. We call upon Pakistan to immediately vacate all areas under its illegal occupation.

India desires normal neighbourly relations with all countries, including Pakistan, and is committed to addressing outstanding issues, if any, bilaterally and peacefully in accordance with the Simla Agreement and the Lahore declaration. However, any meaningful dialogue can be held only in an atmosphere free of terror, hostility and violence. The onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere. Till then, India will continue to take firm and decisive steps to respond to cross-border terrorism.

I thank you.