National Security Advisor Ajit Doval stated during his address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) gathering in Astana, Kazakhstan, on 3rd April 2024, that all acts of terrorism, regardless of the perpetrators, their location, or their motives, are unjustifiable. 

The NSA emphasised the necessity of promptly and decisively addressing individuals responsible for terrorism, including those engaged in cross-border activities. He stressed the importance of avoiding hypocritical approaches and ensuring accountability for those who support, fund, or aid terrorism. 

Doval strongly denounced the savage terrorist assault at Crocus City Hall in Moscow on March 22 and offered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. He conveyed India's unwavering support to the Russian government and its people in confronting the menace of terrorism comprehensively. 

The terrorist organizations mentioned, including Al Qaeda and its affiliates, ISIS and its affiliates, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Jaish-e-Muhammad, were highlighted as ongoing threats in the SCO region and have been designated by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). 

Doval stressed the importance of addressing terrorists' utilization of technology, such as drones, for smuggling weapons and drugs across borders. India advocates for establishing a robust mechanism for cooperation within the SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) to combat terror financing and supports enhancing the capabilities of RATS within the SCO. 

He voiced significant apprehension regarding the security conditions in Afghanistan, particularly concerning the ongoing presence of terrorist networks. He highlighted that India, being a neighbouring country of Afghanistan, holds genuine security and economic concerns in the region. 

Doval communicated that the SCO's urgent goals concerning Afghanistan involve delivering humanitarian aid, facilitating the establishment of an inclusive and representative government, combating terrorism and drug trafficking, and safeguarding the rights of women, children, and minorities. He mentioned India's significant investments in Afghanistan, totaling $3 billion, along with contributions of 50,000 metric tons of wheat, 250 tonnes of medical aid, and 40,000 litres of Malathion pesticide to combat the locust threat in the country. 

“India is committed to enhancing transit trade and connectivity while being fully respectful of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO countries. India’s relationship with SCO countries goes back several centuries and it is committed to further deepening it,” said Doval. 

During the meeting between Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the secretaries of the security councils of SCO member states, Doval expressed India's backing for Kazakh initiatives within the SCO and a successful Presidency. 

He emphasised India's commitment to strengthening its ties with the SCO and its member states proactively and constructively. Doval underscored India's prioritisation of security within the SCO, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision encapsulated in the acronym SECURE: Security, Economic Cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity, and Environment Protection. 

Image Source: Jagran English