India committed to eliminate terrorism, strengthen collective regional security: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 29 (STC): Reiterating India’s commitment to eliminate terrorism in all its forms and strengthen collective regional security, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that India’s experience in dealing with terrorism is not limited to theoretical knowledge, but is based on practical experience gained over decades while facing complex cross-border security challenges. Addressing the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus in Cebu, Philippines, Rajnath Singh said that India’s defence strategy has been tested in real-world situations through practical operations, which has made it more effective and robust. He said that a decisive demonstration of India’s practical and proactive defence doctrine was seen during Operation Sindoor, when the infrastructure of terrorists was targeted and a clear line was drawn against state-sponsored terrorism, on which no compromise can be made.
The Defence Minister stressed that terrorism knows no borders. Therefore, joint efforts at the regional and international levels are essential to address this threat. He said that India is ready to share its practical experience with the ADMM Plus partner countries through joint military exercises, capacity building programmes and effective exchange of intelligence.
Rajnath Singh said that counter-terrorism is a key area of cooperation under ADMM Plus. He said that India and Malaysia are co-chairing the Working Group of Experts on Counter-Terrorism from 2024 to 2027. He said that such joint efforts can help strengthen the collective capabilities of the member countries, effectively address security challenges and maintain peace and stability in the region.
He also stressed the central role of ASEAN and the importance of a safe, open, inclusive, stable and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. He said that India desires a region where peace and stability are not just aspirations but are ensured through shared commitment and practical cooperation.
He said that India’s strategic partnership with ASEAN is based on long-term foundations, which are strengthened by shared interests, mutual respect and practical cooperation. Referring to the second informal ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Meeting held in Kuala Lumpur in October last year, Rajnath Singh said that the meeting reaffirmed the commitment to further advance the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and strengthen defence and security cooperation under the Roadmap 2026-2030. Rajnath Singh said that the theme of this meeting reminds us that the greatest strength of countries lies in their mutual solidarity and their shared ability to leverage geographical, economic and strategic diversity. He added that India believes in an international system that is based on mutual trust, cooperation and collective responsibility. According to him, this spirit of cooperation can help countries overcome the challenges they face in terms of peace and security and build a stable future.
(Straight Talk Communications)
