How did ASEAN Secretary General commend India's stance against terrorism?

Jakarta, May 28 (NationPress) An all-party Parliamentary delegation from India, led by Janata Dal (United) MP Sanjay Jha, engaged in a significant dialogue with Kao Kim Hourn, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta. This meeting reaffirmed India's steadfast opposition to cross-border terrorism. The Secretary-General denounced all forms of terrorism and commended India’s principled stance, emphasizing ASEAN's dedication to collaborate closely with India—a key comprehensive strategic partner—on matters of security and counter-terrorism.

“Kim Hourn praised the Indian Parliament's ongoing participation as an observer within the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), highlighting the importance of enhanced legislative and executive cooperation in promoting shared regional goals. Expressing gratitude for ASEAN’s unity in the global battle against terrorism, Jha remarked that India’s partnership with ASEAN has evolved from the Look East Policy to the current Act East vision. Our emphasis on Connectivity, Commerce, and Culture continues to fortify regional collaboration and mutual progress,” Jha posted on X.

Subsequently, the delegation met with Arief Havas Oegroseno, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, to express their concerns regarding the attack on innocent civilians in Pahalgam on April 22, which was perceived as an attempt to disrupt peace and sow discord among communities. The Indonesian government reiterated its condemnation of this terrorist act and offered support in combating terrorism across all platforms.

They also conferred with Muhammad Husein Fadlulloh, Vice-Chairperson of the Committee for Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation, and Muhammad Rofiqi, Chairperson of the Indonesia-India Parliamentary Friendship Group, to enlighten them about India's resolute commitment against terrorism. The Indonesian representatives expressed their condemnation of terrorism, affirming that dialogue should be the means to resolve issues, emphasizing that terrorism is a crime against humanity and supporting India’s zero tolerance policy.

“Our All-Party Parliamentary Delegation met with Muhammad Husein Fadlulloh and Muhammad Rofiqi. We conveyed India’s strong stance against terrorism. The Indonesian side echoed support, asserting that terrorism must be universally rejected. Both India and Indonesia, united by shared democratic values and civilizational bonds, reaffirmed their commitment to enhance parliamentary and strategic collaboration,” Jha shared on X.

Earlier that day, the delegation arrived in Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, with the intent to communicate India’s unambiguous position against terrorism.

“The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation, led by Sanjay Kumar Jha, reached Jakarta as part of India’s diplomatic initiative on Operation Sindoor. India is dedicated to confronting terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Through this effort, India seeks the understanding and support of its historic ally and Comprehensive Strategic partner,” the Indian Embassy in Jakarta posted on X.

During their stay in Jakarta, the delegation plans to engage with Indonesian government officials, parliamentarians, political leaders, ambassadors, think tanks, academia, media, and a diverse segment of the Indian community in Indonesia.

The delegation, led by Jha, includes MPs from BJP, the Trinamool Congress, CPI(M), senior Congress members, and former Indian Ambassador to France, Mohan Kumar.

After their successful engagements in Singapore, South Korea, and Japan, the delegates will now emphasize the significance of Operation Sindoor and India’s ongoing struggle against Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism to the Indonesian leadership.