EAM Jaishankar Advocates Zero Tolerance for Terrorism at ASEAN Meeting

New Delhi, India Jul 23, 2026 ALN: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on Thursday called for zero tolerance against terrorism, stronger maritime security, and deeper regional cooperation on disaster resilience, cyber security, and emerging technologies while addressing the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting in Manila. This meeting is part of a long-standing initiative that promotes dialogue and cooperation on political and security issues in the Indo-Pacific region.

The ASEAN Regional Forum, established in 1994, serves as a key platform for discussing security and political issues among its member states, which include ten Southeast Asian nations and eight other countries, including India. The forum aims to foster constructive dialogue and consultation on security issues, which have become increasingly complex in the face of shifting geopolitical dynamics, particularly with the rise of China as a regional power and ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.

During the meeting, EAM Jaishankar stated that the ASEAN Regional Forum remains an important platform for discussions on political and security issues in the Indo-Pacific, particularly at a time of growing geopolitical complexity. He emphasized the need for collective action in addressing these challenges, underscoring the significance of cooperation among nations to ensure peace and stability in the region.

The External Affairs Minister welcomed the Manila Plan of Action, a strategic framework that outlines the priorities and objectives of the ASEAN Regional Forum. He noted that its five pillars are closely aligned with India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific, which emphasizes the importance of a free, open, and inclusive regional order. This alignment reflects India's commitment to being an active player in regional security and cooperation.

In his address, Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to promoting a collaborative approach to disaster management through the sharing of best practices, development of standard operating procedures, and the conduct of real-time and tabletop exercises. Disaster resilience is a critical issue in the Indo-Pacific, given the region's vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and tsunamis.

Highlighting India’s humanitarian assistance efforts, EAM Jaishankar said the country actively supports the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), an initiative aimed at promoting resilient infrastructure development in disaster-prone areas. India regularly deploys field hospitals, search and rescue teams, relief materials, and medical supplies during emergencies. He noted that India has recently undertaken rehabilitation efforts following disasters, including cyclones in Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Jamaica, as well as earthquakes in Myanmar, Venezuela, and Afghanistan. This proactive approach not only aids in immediate relief efforts but also strengthens India's diplomatic ties with neighboring countries.

EAM Jaishankar emphasized that there must be “zero tolerance” for terrorism and that acts of terror must have consequences. The fight against terrorism remains a top priority for India, which has faced numerous terrorist attacks over the years. He also stressed the need to choke financial networks that support terrorist organizations, recognizing that funding is a crucial element in the operational capabilities of such groups.

He mentioned that India, as co-chair of the Experts Working Group (EWG) on counter-terrorism under the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) along with Malaysia, is leading the preparation of a compendium of global best practices to strengthen regional counter-terrorism cooperation. This initiative aims to foster collaboration among member states in sharing intelligence, enhancing operational capabilities, and developing legal frameworks to combat terrorism effectively.

Addressing maritime security, the minister highlighted India’s contributions through the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region, the Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness initiative, and the deployment of Indian naval assets from the North Arabian Sea to the Western Pacific. These initiatives have played an important role in combating piracy, trafficking, narcotics smuggling, and ensuring the security of maritime trade, which is vital for the economies of many countries in the region.

EAM Jaishankar also emphasized the importance of strengthening global non-proliferation and disarmament efforts, urging the international community to remain vigilant against attempts to undermine established frameworks. The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction poses a significant threat to global security, and India has consistently advocated for a multilateral approach to address this challenge.

On emerging technologies, he advocated for a responsible and human-centric approach to artificial intelligence while calling for enhanced international cooperation to combat cybercrime and other technology-driven security challenges. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, it has become increasingly important for nations to work together to address the risks associated with cyber threats and other malicious uses of technology.

Referring to maritime disputes, the External Affairs Minister stated that attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure were unacceptable and stressed that international waterways must remain safe, secure, and open for global commerce. The South China Sea, a crucial maritime route for global trade, has been a flashpoint for tensions between China and several Southeast Asian nations, making it imperative for all stakeholders to adhere to international norms and laws.

On the South China Sea, he reaffirmed India’s support for an effective, substantive, and legally binding Code of Conduct (CoC) that is fully consistent with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982 and safeguards the legitimate rights of all users. This position aligns with India's broader strategy of promoting a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, which is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

On the sidelines of the ministerial meeting, EAM Jaishankar held a series of bilateral engagements with his counterparts from several countries. These meetings are crucial for strengthening diplomatic ties and fostering cooperation on various issues, including trade, security, and regional stability.

He met Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Khalilur Rahman, discussing regional cooperation. Both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are significant partners for India in South Asia, and discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in areas such as trade, infrastructure development, and security.

The External Affairs Minister also held talks with European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, describing it as a productive interaction. The EU is a key partner for India, and discussions often revolve around enhancing trade relations, addressing climate change, and cooperating on security issues.

During his meeting with Brunei’s Foreign Minister Prince Abdul Mateen, EAM Jaishankar congratulated him on assuming office and discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, drones, and digital technologies. Both leaders agreed to advance the bilateral agenda in line with India’s Act East Policy and strengthen cooperation within ASEAN-led mechanisms. This reflects India's commitment to engaging with Southeast Asian nations and enhancing its presence in the region.

EAM Jaishankar also met Papua New Guinea Foreign Minister Justin W. Tkatchenko, where discussions focused on bilateral cooperation through the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). He reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Pacific Island countries in their development, capacity-building initiatives, and maritime security priorities. This engagement underscores India's recognition of the strategic importance of the Pacific Islands and its desire to strengthen ties with these nations.

In conclusion, the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting provided a platform for India to assert its position on key security issues while reinforcing its commitment to regional cooperation. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, India's proactive approach in advocating for zero tolerance towards terrorism, maritime security, and collaboration on emerging technologies positions it as a pivotal player in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific region.