Permanent Mission of India
New York
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A special exhibition titled "The Human Cost of Terrorism"

Statement by Ambassador Pravathaneni Harish, Permanent Representative
30 June, 2025

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar,

Excellencies, Colleagues

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is with deep respect and solemn reflection that we gather here today for the opening of this important exhibition on ‘The Human Cost of Terrorism’. It is an honour to welcome you all.

This exhibition is not only a space of remembrance - it is a call to conscience. It stands as a tribute to the men, women, and children whose lives have been lost, or forever changed by acts of terrorism around the world.

It tells the stories of those whose lives were irreparably changed by acts of terror - the lives lost, the families shattered, the communities wounded, and the futures stolen. Yet, it also tells stories of great resilience and solidarity, of voices that refuse to be silenced, and of the courage of survivors who, in the face of immense pain, choose hope over hatred.

Friends,

Being a victim of terrorism for decades, India has always been at the forefront to call for global efforts and collective action against the scourge of terrorism and violent extremism. The presence of External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar today is a testament to India’s deep commitment and utmost priority to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. I thank you Sir for taking out time from your busy schedule to be with us for today’s opening.

The exhibition is being organized here at the United Nations to reaffirm our commitment to supporting victims of terrorism, not only through words, but through action - by joint and collective action, by action beyond narrow political considerations and with the firm belief that terrorism anywhere is terrorism everywhere.

I am sure as you move through this exhibition, you will carry with you a sense of both the sorrow and the strength that these stories represent. May it renew our resolve to build a more compassionate, inclusive, and peaceful world by intensifying our collective effort to combat terrorism and violent extremism around the world.

I thank you all again for joining us today at this important occasion and I wish to thank the UN secretariat for their help and facilitation in setting up this exhibition – in particular to DOS USG Dr Atul Khare and Director Patrick Carey.

Thank you.