Impose costs on nations that back terror, says Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called for penalising countries that support terrorism as part of their foreign policy by providing political, ideological, and financial support, making an indirect reference to Pakistan, which has harboured terror camps and outfits for decades.

Speaking during his inaugural address at the No Money for Terror (NMFT)’S third ministerial conference in New Delhi, Modi also hit out at attempts to block action against terrorists in what appeared to be criticism of China that has thwarted efforts by India to get Pakistan-based terrorists blacklisted at international forums.

“It is well known that terrorist organisations get money through several sources. One source is state support. Certain countries support terrorism as part of their foreign policy… international organisations must not think that the absence of war means peace. Proxy wars are also dangerous and violent,” Modi told the gathering of 450 delegates from 77 countries and 16 multilateral agencies. “There must be a cost imposed upon countries that support terrorism. Organisations and individuals that try to create sympathy for terrorists must also be isolated. There can