The foreign ministers of the Quad countries — the United States, India, Japan, and Australia — strongly condemned the terrorist attack that took place on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack killed 26 civilians, most of whom were tourists.
In a joint statement released on Wednesday, the four nations demanded justice. They said, “We call for perpetrators, organisers, and financiers of April 22 Pahalgam attack to be brought to justice.”
Attack Linked to Pakistan-Based Terror Groups
On April 22, terrorists opened fire in the Baisaran meadow area of Pahalgam town. The brutal attack resulted in the deaths of 26 people. Later investigations revealed the attackers had ties to terror groups based in Pakistan.
India Responds with ‘Operation Sindoor’
Following the attack, India launched a military response. On May 7, the Indian armed forces carried out ‘Operation Sindoor’. During this mission, they targeted multiple terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Jaishankar Meets U.S. Officials During Quad Summit
While attending the Quad foreign ministers’ meeting, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held several key discussions with U.S. officials.
On Tuesday, he met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The two leaders spoke about strengthening the India-U.S. partnership and shared views on regional and global issues.
Jaishankar wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “A pleasure meeting US @SecRubio this afternoon, on the sidelines of Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting.”
He further added that their conversation included topics like trade, security, critical technologies, energy, mobility, and connectivity. He said they also exchanged thoughts on major international developments.
Talks with U.S. Defence Secretary Focus on Military Ties
Jaishankar also met U.S. Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth during his visit. Their discussion focused on growing defence ties between India and the U.S.
After the meeting, Jaishankar posted, “Great to meet @SecDef Pete Hegseth in Washington DC today. Had a productive conversation on advancing the India-US defence partnership, building on growing convergences of interests, capabilities and responsibilities.”
High-Level Visit Aims to Strengthen Strategic Cooperation
Jaishankar is visiting the U.S. from June 30 to July 2 at the invitation of Secretary Rubio. His visit highlights India’s active diplomatic engagement with Quad countries and its ongoing efforts to expand cooperation with the United States.