Raising concerns about the presence of terrorist networks in Afghanistan, National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval on Tuesday said that the persistence of terrorist networks in Afghanistan is a matter of deep concern.
“Persistence of terrorist networks in the region, including in Afghanistan is also a matter of deep concern, Financing is the lifeblood of terrorism and countering terrorism should be an equal priority for all of us,” Doval said.
He said so while addressing the inaugural meeting of National Security Advisers or Secretaries of Security Councils with his counterparts from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
“Afghanistan is an important issue concerning all of us. India’s concerns and objectives with regard to immediate priorities and the way forward are similar to those of many of us around the table,” Doval further said.
He also asked central Asian countries to call on all UN members to fulfill obligations enshrined in relevant counter-terror conventions and refrain from supporting entities involved in terror attacks.
Doval further noted that connectivity with Central Asian countries remains a key priority for India. “We stand ready to cooperate, invest and build connectivity in the region. While expanding connectivity it is important to ensure that the initiatives are consultative, transparent and participatory,” he added.
The first one-day NSA-level meeting follows the first summit in January 2022 between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the presidents of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
