The BRICS Parliamentary Forum has condemned the April 22, 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 people were killed and many others injured, in a joint declaration adopted in New Delhi on October 27.
The declaration, announced by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at the conclusion of the two-day conclave, condemned terrorism “in all its forms and manifestations” and pledged action against cross-border movement of terrorists, terror financing and safe havens.
It called for zero tolerance towards terrorism, rejected double standards in counter-terror efforts and said those involved in terrorist activity and its support must be held accountable under national and international law. The forum also sought an early finalisation and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the UN framework.
The parliamentary body backed comprehensive reform of the United Nations, including the UN Security Council. It also reaffirmed the principles of sovereign equality, mutual respect, non-intervention in internal affairs and peaceful settlement of disputes.
The declaration condemned unilateral economic and secondary sanctions, saying such coercive measures have far-reaching adverse implications for human rights, including the rights to development, health and food security.
On West Asia, the forum supported a peaceful Israeli-Palestinian settlement based on a two-state solution and called for maximum restraint amid escalating tensions. It condemned violations of international humanitarian law, including attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, obstruction of humanitarian access and targeting of aid personnel.
The forum also called for stronger climate action through nationally determined contributions and international cooperation. It recognised the potential of artificial intelligence and information and communication technologies, while stressing secure, equitable and peaceful use that respects national sovereignty and security.
