New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday reaffirmed India’s firm stance against terrorism, describing Operation Sindoor as a clear declaration of the country’s position against state sponsored terrorism. Addressing the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) in Cebu, Philippines, he called for stronger regional cooperation to eliminate terrorism and strengthen security across the Indo Pacific.
Singh emphasised India’s commitment to enhancing regional security and tackling terrorism at its roots. He highlighted the country’s extensive experience in counter terrorism operations, stressing that India’s strategies had been shaped by decades of practical experience in confronting security threats.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, conducted last year, the Defence Minister said India had demonstrated its resolve by destroying multiple terrorist infrastructure sites. He described the operation as a clear message against state sponsored terrorism and underlined the importance of coordinated action to address cross border security challenges.
Singh called on ADMM Plus partners to strengthen cooperation through intelligence sharing, joint military exercises and capacity building programmes. He said sharing practical counter terrorism expertise would help countries improve their collective capabilities and respond more effectively to emerging threats.
He also emphasised the need for a secure and resilient Indo Pacific region, where peace and stability are achieved through collective efforts rather than remaining aspirations.
Singh reiterated India’s support for ASEAN’s central role in regional affairs, advocating an open and inclusive Indo Pacific based on a rules based international order.
He said India’s long term strategic engagement with ASEAN was built on shared interests, mutual respect and practical cooperation. Strengthening these partnerships, he added, remained important for promoting regional stability and addressing common security concerns.
At the beginning of his address, Singh expressed condolences over the October 23 aircraft crash in the Philippines that claimed the lives of four Philippine Air Force pilots.
He conveyed India’s solidarity with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the bereaved families, expressing grief over the loss of the four personnel.
Singh’s address highlighted India’s priorities of strengthening defence partnerships, improving counter terrorism coordination and supporting a stable regional security environment. His remarks also reinforced New Delhi’s commitment to working with ASEAN member states and other partners to address shared challenges across the Indo Pacific.
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