How are India and Australia Enhancing Cooperation in Countering Terrorism?
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Synopsis
In a recent meeting in Canberra, India and Australia reinforced their commitment to combat terrorism and radicalization, emphasizing collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts. This partnership aims to address the evolving challenges posed by violent extremism. Discover the key outcomes and future plans of this vital alliance.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts.
- Timely information sharing to combat terrorist activities.
- Commitment to addressing radicalization and violent extremism.
- Joint condemnation of recent terrorist attacks.
- Future meetings planned to enhance cooperation.
Canberra, Oct 30 (NationPress) In a significant development, India and Australia convened the 15th session of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on Counter Terrorism in Canberra. The discussions centered on enhancing collaborative efforts to combat terrorism, radicalisation, and violent extremism that fosters terrorism, as reported by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday.
The meeting featured a comprehensive dialogue on the evolving terrorism landscape at domestic, regional, and international levels. Both nations exchanged insights on various cooperative aspects regarding counter terrorism, law enforcement, judicial partnership, and maritime safety. The session was co-chaired by MEA Joint Secretary (Counter Terrorism) Vinod Bahade and Gemma Huggins, Australia’s Ambassador for Counter-Terrorism.
Both parties denounced the atrocious terrorist attack that occurred on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, with the Australian representatives reaffirming their solidarity with India. Acknowledging the pressing need for enhanced cooperation to effectively tackle the challenges posed by terrorism, both sides emphasized strengthening partnerships in timely information sharing and coordinated actions to counter the misuse of new technologies for terrorist activities, while exploring methods to combat radicalization and violent extremism.
Officials from both nations reiterated their commitment to bolster collaboration in various multilateral platforms, including the United Nations, Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF), Financial Action Task Force (FATF), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), No Money for Terror (NMFT), and Quad partners to effectively combat global terrorism.
The Indian delegation also engaged with officials from the Australian Federal Police Counter Terrorism Unit, National Emergency Management Agency, and Maritime Border Command. They visited the Australian Watch Office and the Crisis Centre.
Both countries agreed to schedule the next meeting of the Joint Working Group in Delhi at a mutually convenient time.
Earlier this week, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the 20th East Asia Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
On social media platform X, EAM Jaishankar remarked, 'It was a pleasure to meet PM Anthony Albanese of Australia on the sidelines of the 20th East Asia Summit.'
On October 9, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong convened in Canberra to discuss strategies for reinforcing the evolving Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Penny Wong referred to India and Australia as 'joint custodians' of the Indian Ocean.
Rajnath Singh posted on X, stating, 'Had a productive meeting with Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong in Canberra.'
The Ministry of Defence provided details of the meeting, noting, 'Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh met with Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong in Canberra. The leaders deliberated on fortifying the growing India–Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and enhancing cooperation across vital sectors such as trade, technology, connectivity, and regional security.'
Point of View
The commitment demonstrated by India and Australia in strengthening their counter-terrorism efforts showcases a proactive approach to global security challenges. Their collaborative initiatives highlight the importance of international partnerships in effectively addressing radicalization and terrorism, creating a safer environment for both nations and the broader region.
NationPress
01/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the meeting between India and Australia?
The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation in countering terrorism, radicalisation, and violent extremism.
Who co-chaired the Joint Working Group meeting?
The meeting was co-chaired by MEA Joint Secretary Vinod Bahade and Australia's Ambassador for Counter-Terrorism Gemma Huggins.
What was condemned during the meeting?
Both sides condemned the terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam.
Where will the next Joint Working Group meeting be held?
The next meeting will take place in Delhi at a mutually convenient date.
