Don't lecture us on democracy: India to Pak

India on Wednesday asked Pakistan to fulfill its 'solemn commitment' of not allowing its territory to be used for terrorism directed against India, particularly against Jammu and Kashmir which is 'an integral part of India.'

Speaking in the United Nations General Assembly External Affairs Minister S M Krishna said that credible and firm action by Pakistan against terrorist groups operating from Pakistan soil is in the interest of both Islamabad and the region.

Noting that many countries have 'deep-rooted concerns' about the growth and consolidation of militancy and terrorism in Pakistan, Krishna said India shares these concerns, particularly because of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral part of India and which is the target of Pakistan-sponsored militancy and terrorism.

"Pakistan cannot impart lessons to us on democracy and human rights,' Krishna said. He said if however, Pakistan were to live up to its commitment of not allowing use of its soil by terrorists acting against India, it would significantly help reduce the trust deficit that impedes the development of better bilateral relations between the two countries. 'We are neighbors, and as neighbors, we have an obligation to work together.'

Noting that peace and stability in South Asia is one of India's highest priorities, Krishna said that New Delhi is committed to good neighborly relations with all its neighbors, including Pakistan.

'It is in this spirit of solidarity with the people of Pakistan in their hour of need, that we pledged $$25 million aid which is being channeled through the UN for flood relief efforts in that country,' Krishna said.

The minister sought to draw the attention of the international community to the importance of engagement with Afghanistan for the success of its reconstruction efforts and its emergence as a democratic and pluralistic society.

But he said that the continuing existence of safe havens and sanctuaries for terrorists 'beyond Afghanistan's borders' is the major impediment to restoration of peace and security in Afghanistan. 'This should be a primary focus of the international community,' he said.

Krishna said that to defeat the scourge of terrorism that ahs emerged as one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, it is imperative for the global community to build on international cooperation and take concerted action against terrorists and their sponsors.

"Acts of terrorism need to be condemned by all, wherever and whenever they are committed, by whomsoever and for whatever purposes. There can be no justification for terrorism just as there can be no good and bad terrorists,' he said.
In his address, Krishna also touched upon the reform of the UN Security Council, the Millennium Development Goals as well as the impact of climate change on countries like India.