Copenhagen/New Delhi – As Denmark prepares to take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the country continues to back India’s Operation Sindoor and supports New Delhi’s call for a united global stand against terrorism.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, Freddy Svane, former Danish Ambassador to India, emphasized that there can be no compromise from Europe when it comes to countering terrorism. He strongly endorsed India’s diplomatic outreach and called for action against Pakistan for its continued support of terrorism, including reinstating it on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
Highlights from the Interview:
Q: How do you view India’s global outreach against terrorism through Operation Sindoor?
Freddy Svane: It’s a powerful and much-needed message. India’s all-party delegations spreading awareness globally, especially following the inhumane Pahalgam attack, show that India is moving from words to decisive actions. I commend Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in taking a global stand against terror—this effort has been well received in Denmark too.
Q: Has India emerged stronger through this campaign?
Svane: Absolutely. This proactive global outreach is unprecedented for India and positions it as a leader in the fight against terrorism. India is defining a new normal by openly confronting terror and rallying the world for a unified response.
Q: What about Pakistan’s ongoing role in promoting terrorism?
Svane: Having lived in India for over 10 years, I witnessed firsthand the impact of terrorism. Pakistan has long been a source of instability, regardless of whether the military or civilian leadership is involved. It’s time for a clear, joint response from the global community—and Pakistan must be held accountable.
Q: Should Pakistan be returned to the FATF grey list?
Svane: Yes. Terrorism requires funding and coordination. If we want to stop it, we must choke its financial lifelines. Pakistan should be placed back on the FATF grey list to limit its ability to fund terror.
Q: You met PM Modi when he was Gujarat CM. How do you see India’s progress under his leadership?
Svane: I met him in 2011, and since then, India has grown tremendously. Under his leadership, India is more outward-looking, self-confident, and assertive in defining its path to becoming a developed nation (Viksit Bharat). I believe in that vision, and Denmark has actively partnered with India in areas like green development.
Q: Has Operation Sindoor further strengthened PM Modi’s global image?
Svane: Without a doubt. His decisive leadership during India’s G20 presidency and now Operation Sindoor reinforces his global stature. The initiative to involve the Global South and welcome the African Union into the G20 reflects his inclusive and strategic mindset. Operation Sindoor shows India has drawn clear red lines—it’s ready to act, not just talk.
Q: Is Europe united in countering state-sponsored terrorism?
Svane: Terrorism is a global menace and Europe cannot afford to show any flexibility. I hope India’s parliamentary visits will push countries to move from statements to concrete actions. Now that India has taken the lead, it’s time for the world to join hands and act decisively.
Q: Should Pakistan’s remaining allies also reassess their stance?
Svane: Absolutely. Any nation backing a state sponsor of terror is on the wrong side of history. The world needs to unite against terrorism, and I hope India’s diplomatic efforts lead to broader global consensus and action.
Q: What was your reaction to the extradition of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana?
Svane: I was relieved. Justice has finally prevailed. This shows that terrorists will be held accountable, no matter how long it takes. It sends a powerful message—there will be no safe haven for those who commit such crimes.
Q: How do you see the future of the India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership?
Svane: There are no limits. It began in 2011 with a shared vision for green and sustainable growth. Now it’s a key pillar of our bilateral relationship. I visited Adani’s renewable project in Khavda last year—it was a game-changer. India and Denmark complement each other well in this mission, and the Green Strategic Partnership could be a model for global cooperation on climate change, just like the fight against terror.
With inputs from IANS