EU delegation calls upon Modi, will visit J&K today

Urgent action needed against those supporting and sponsoring terrorism: PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday told a delegation of European Union (EU) MPS that close international cooperation is essential to fight terror and urgent action is needed against those supporting and sponsoring terrorism.

The 28 members of parliament of the EU had called on the prime minister a day before they visit Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). The prime minister, who asserted that there should be “zero tolerance” for terrorism, said the visit to J&K should give the MPS a better understanding of the cultural and religious diversity of the regions of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, according to a statement by the Prime Minister ’s Office.

Without naming any country, Modi said terrorism and radicalisation particularly threaten democratic societies like India and Europe. “Close international cooperation is essential to fight terrorism. Urgent action must be taken against all those who support or sponsor terrorism or support such activities and organisations or use terrorism as a state policy. There should b e z ero tolerance for terrorism,” he told the 28 MPS.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also briefed the EU lawmakers on the situation in J&K and terrorism emanating from across the border, sources said. Referring to India's relations with the EU, Modi said New Delhi attaches the highest importance to its relations with the EU. “Our partnership is even more important in today’s testing times,” he said. Pointing out that the EU is India’s largest trade partner and source of foreign direct investment, Modi said the early conclusion of a fair and balanced Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement is a priority for his government.

Modi also highlighted the jump in India’s position in Ease of Doing Business rankings from 142 in 2014 to 63 now. “This is a massive achievement for a country of such enormous size, demography, and diversity. Governance systems are today enabling people to move in an aspirational direction,” he said.

PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI, IN A TWEET