Copenhagen/New Delhi: Denmark, set to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union this year, continues to support India’s Operation Sindoor and New Delhi’s call for a united global effort to combat the threat of terrorism.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, Freddy Svane, former Danish Ambassador to India, asserted that there can be no flexibility on Europe’s part in the fight against terrorism. Commending India’s Operation Sindoor diplomatic outreach, the veteran diplomat also supported demands to place Pakistan back on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.

India is sending a strong global message against terrorism with all-party delegations visiting several countries, including one that was in Copenhagen. How do you view this outreach?

FS: I think it’s very important that the message you’re conveying is not only heard but acted upon. As someone who served as Ambassador to India for over a decade, I’m glad that in the aftermath of the tragic and inhumane Pahalgam incident, India is standing up and speaking against terror. We must all shift from words to actions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to dispatch parliamentarians worldwide to rally support against terrorism is crucial and has been well-received in Denmark.

Has India emerged stronger through Operation Sindoor?

FS: I believe so. I even asked some of the visiting MPs whether this was something new, as I had never seen India take such a step. They mentioned it was done decades ago, but this renewed effort is significant. It highlights India’s commitment to combating terrorism and positions the country as a leading voice. This is the new normal, and the world must understand the consequences if terrorism goes unchecked. We’re all part of one global family.

Pakistan continues to sponsor terror activities targeting India...

FS: Having lived in India for 10 years over two postings, I experienced the impact of terror first-hand. It was evident that Pakistan played a role in many attacks. While some may argue about distinctions within Pakistan—between political and military institutions—when it comes to terror, there is only one ugly face. Pakistan’s actions demand a conscious, joint, and coordinated global response. It’s time to call them out.

Is it time to return Pakistan to the FATF grey list?

FS: Absolutely. Terror isn’t spontaneous—it requires financing, planning, and infrastructure. We must stop the flow of funds supporting terror networks. Pakistan must be held accountable and placed on the FATF grey list again. There’s no doubt about that.

You met PM Modi when he was Gujarat’s Chief Minister. How do you assess India’s growth under his leadership?

FS: I’ve watched India grow immensely. I first met Prime Minister Modi in 2011, when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat. We had a meaningful interaction that evolved over the years. When I returned in 2019, we continued that engagement and launched the Green Strategic Partnership. India has become more outward-looking and is defining its path toward Viksit Bharat (Developed India). Under PM Modi, India has grown stronger and will continue to do so. A strong India is in everyone’s interest.