India, Vietnam to jointly counter terrorism, drug trafficking in the Indo-Pacific region

India and Vietnam held their second Security dialogue in Delhi and discussed issues of maritime domain, counter-terrorism and capacity building programmes.

The dialogue was held on Tuesday between Deputy National Security Advisor Vikram Misri and the Deputy Minister of Public Security, Vietnam, Senior Lieutenant General Luong Tam Quang.

The two sides agreed to collaborate and cooperate on counter-terrorism. They agreed that coordinated efforts are needed to “combat the nexus of radicalization, terrorism and the production and trafficking of illegal narcotics and arms in the region”, according to government of India press statement.

Misri reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), which focuses on a collaborative effort to better manage, conserve, sustain and secure the maritime domain. The IPOI also shares strong convergence with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. Vietnam appreciates India’s role in promoting peace and security in the region and in shaping the Indo-Pacific architecture.

Misri also reiterated India’s firm stand for the freedom of navigation and overflight, and unimpeded lawful commerce in national waters in accordance with international laws, notably UNCLOS, as well as respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations.

He added that the Code of Conduct on the South China Sea should be fully consistent with the relevant UN conventions and negotiations should not prejudice the legitimate rights and interests of nations that are not party to the discussions.

India also offered to provide training to Ministry of Public Security officials in undertaking UN Peace Keeping Missions. India will also share its expertise and domain knowledge in the field of cyber security.

As two maritime countries, India and Vietnam will also share best practices to combat piracy and illegal fishing. The two sides also agreed to actively exchange views in areas such as the blue economy, sustainable oceans and marine connectivity.

Deputy Minister Lt General Quang called on National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and other officials.