In the wake of the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed at least 26 lives, Sri Lankan leaders, including President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, have issued strong condemnations and extended heartfelt condolences to the people of India.

President Dissanayake, in a public statement on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident. “Our hearts are with the victims and their families,” he said. “Sri Lanka always stands in solidarity with the people of India against terrorism and violence.” His message underscored the close ties between the two South Asian neighbors, particularly in times of adversity.

The Sri Lankan Parliament also observed a moment of silence to honor the victims of the attack. Prime Minister and Foreign Minister both issued separate statements denouncing the act of terror, calling it an inhuman assault on innocent civilians. “Terrorism knows no borders, and it is a threat to the entire humanity,” the Foreign Minister remarked.

The attack, which took place on April 22, 2025, targeted a group of tourists visiting Pahalgam, a popular destination in the scenic Kashmir Valley. The bustling market areas that usually see crowds of visitors were deserted the next day, with heavy security presence visible throughout the region.

Photographs from Pahalgam on April 23 showed shuttered shops, empty streets, and security personnel patrolling to maintain calm and prevent any further incidents.

Indian authorities have intensified their investigations into the attack, while neighboring countries like Sri Lanka have reiterated their support for India’s fight against terrorism. Diplomatic sources confirm that the Sri Lankan embassy in New Delhi has also conveyed an official letter of solidarity to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) members, including Sri Lanka, are reportedly coordinating a collective condemnation of the attack and exploring avenues for greater regional counter-terrorism cooperation.

This show of solidarity from Sri Lanka highlights the regional commitment to combatting terrorism and ensuring peace and security across borders, especially at a time when civilian lives continue to be targeted by extremist violence.