How Are India and France Strengthening Their Counter-Terrorism Efforts?
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Synopsis
In a significant step towards international security, India and France convened for the 17th JWG on counter-terrorism in Paris, condemning the recent attack in Pahalgam. This meeting exemplifies the two nations' commitment to combatting terrorism through enhanced collaboration and strategic dialogues.
Key Takeaways
- Commitment to Counter-Terrorism: Both nations reaffirmed their dedication to combat terrorism.
- Condemnation of Violence: The Pahalgam attack was condemned by both delegations.
- Bilateral Cooperation: Enhanced collaboration on security challenges was emphasized.
- Focus on Technology: Discussions included the misuse of technology by terror groups.
- Future Meetings: The next JWG meeting will be held in India.
New Delhi, Sep 12 (NationPress) India and France have reiterated their unwavering dedication to fighting terrorism in all its manifestations during the 17th Meeting of the India-France Joint Working Group (JWG) on counter-terrorism, held in Paris, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday.
Leading the Indian delegation was K.D. Dewal, Joint Secretary (Counter Terrorism) at the MEA, while the French side was represented by Olivier Caron, the French Counter-Terrorism Ambassador. The meeting condemned the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in 26 fatalities.
The MEA’s statement released on Friday highlighted the mutual concerns both nations share regarding terrorism and stressed the need for enhanced bilateral collaboration in addressing evolving security challenges.
Throughout the meeting, both delegations exchanged insights on current threat evaluations in their respective nations.
Topics of discussion included state-sponsored cross-border terrorism, terrorist activities in South Asia and the Middle East, as well as the escalating misuse of emerging technologies by terrorist organizations.
Furthermore, the two sides concentrated on the challenges of radicalization and extremism, particularly in online spaces. The dialogue underscored the necessity for collaborative efforts to counter terrorist propaganda and online recruitment, an increasingly pressing global issue.
France and India also expressed a desire to improve coordination on international platforms, including the United Nations, Financial Action Task Force (FATF), and the No Money for Terror (NMFT) initiative.
The MEA remarked, "The discussions on bilateral and multilateral cooperation centered on intensifying capacity-building initiatives through training and exercises. The two sides explored collaboration within the UN, FATF, and NMFT frameworks."
Additionally, the two nations investigated broadening the scope of their counter-terrorism dialogue to encompass organized crime, cybersecurity threats, and the sharing of information regarding online propaganda.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to hold the 18th JWG meeting in India at a mutually convenient time.
The enduring counter-terrorism collaboration between India and France is viewed as a crucial aspect of their strategic partnership, founded on shared democratic values and a united commitment to global security.
Point of View
I firmly believe that the ongoing collaboration between India and France in counter-terrorism is crucial for national and global security. Their united stance against terrorism not only strengthens their strategic partnership but also exemplifies the importance of international cooperation in addressing evolving threats.
NationPress
12/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the focus of the 17th India-France JWG on counter-terrorism?
The primary focus was to enhance cooperation in combating terrorism, discussing state-sponsored cross-border terrorism, and addressing the challenges of radicalization and online extremist propaganda.
What recent event did the delegations condemn?
The delegations condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives.
How does this meeting impact international security?
This meeting reinforces the commitment of both nations to collaborate on counter-terrorism, which is essential for enhancing international security and addressing global threats.
