India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on Thursday called for a unified and uncompromising global approach against terrorism, saying responsible nations must decide whether they stand with sponsors of terror or against them.
Speaking at the first International Security Forum and the 14th Meeting of High Representatives for Security Matters in Moscow, Doval stressed that there could be “no double standards” in combating terrorism.
The meeting was hosted by Sergei Shoigu and focused on global security challenges in an increasingly multipolar world.
Doval pushes for stronger global response to terror
Addressing delegates at the forum, Doval said terrorism remained one of the biggest threats to international peace and stability and required decisive global cooperation.
According to the Hindustan Times, he stated that nations must take clear positions on whether they support countries sponsoring terrorism or work collectively to counter terror networks.
The NSA reiterated India’s long-standing position that selective approaches towards terrorism weaken international security efforts and allow extremist threats to persist.
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Calls for reforms in global institutions
According to the Hindustan Times, Doval also underlined the need to reform global institutions and governance structures established after the Second World War.
According to him, institutions created in 1945 must evolve to better address contemporary geopolitical and security challenges.
He said reforms should provide greater representation to countries of the Global South and ensure their perspectives are included in international decision-making processes.
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Focus on West Asia and trade routes
Highlighting developments in West Asia, Doval stressed the importance of maintaining uninterrupted global trade through strategic maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.
According to the Hindustan Times, he noted that ensuring the security of these waterways was essential for global economic stability and energy supply chains.
The NSA is also expected to hold a series of bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the Moscow forum over May 28 and 29.
