India has sent a powerful message to the world by reaffirming its zero tolerance to terror at ASEAN Forum.
At the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting, held virtually on July 12, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita delivered India’s statement with sharp clarity.
Margherita underlined New Delhi’s commitment to fighting terrorism in all its forms and urged regional partners to work together against extremist threats.
Margherita Slams Pakistan
In a significant part of his speech, Margherita criticized Pakistan for continuing to support cross-border terrorism.
Without directly naming Pakistan in every sentence, the Minister made India’s frustration clear.
He said:
“Certain countries continue to shelter and support terrorists. This undermines peace and stability in our region.”
Margherita’s comments reflect India’s consistent position that Pakistan needs to dismantle terror networks operating from its soil.
Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Focus
The minister’s remarks also highlighted India’s strategic vision in the Indo-Pacific.
He reiterated India’s Act East Policy, which aims to strengthen ties with ASEAN nations.
Margherita emphasized that peace and security in Southeast Asia are critical for the region’s economic growth.
He said:
“India is committed to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Our partnerships with ASEAN are central to this vision.”
This aligns with broader global conversations about maintaining stability and countering coercive activities in the region.
Terrorism Remains a Core Issue
The ASEAN Regional Forum, with 27 members including the US, China, Russia, and ASEAN countries, is an important platform for security dialogue in Asia.
India used this opportunity to call for collective efforts against terrorism, including measures like blocking terror financing, improving intelligence sharing, and preventing radicalization.
Margherita pointed out that terrorist groups are using modern technology to recruit and spread propaganda, which makes regional cooperation even more crucial.
Rising Global Security Concerns
Margherita’s intervention comes at a time of rising geopolitical tension in the Indo-Pacific.
China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea, as well as global concerns about terrorism, have kept regional forums like ARF in the spotlight.
India’s speech reflects its determination to be seen as a responsible regional power that prioritizes security, stability, and rule of law.
An analyst from New Delhi noted:
“India’s stance is clear. It wants to build strong partnerships but also push back against terrorism and coercion in the region.”
ASEAN Countries Respond
Several ASEAN countries expressed agreement with India’s call for unity against terrorism.
Diplomatic sources said many Southeast Asian nations are also worried about terror groups exploiting social media and other channels.
One diplomat said:
“India’s voice carries weight. Regional peace depends on working together against shared threats.”
India’s Broader Diplomatic Push
India’s message at the ARF fits into its larger diplomatic push.
The country has been actively engaging in forums like the East Asia Summit, Quad meetings, and bilateral dialogues with ASEAN members.
These efforts underline India’s belief that economic and security interests are intertwined in the Indo-Pacific.
Call for Unified Action
Pabitra Margherita concluded his speech by calling for practical cooperation among ARF nations.
He said terrorism has no place in a civilized world and should be fought with all available tools.
“Terrorism threatens us all. We must stand together to eradicate it completely.”
India’s firm stance at the ARF serves as a reminder that the fight against terror remains central to its foreign policy.
The Road Ahead
The strong statements made by India at the ARF indicate that New Delhi will continue raising its voice on security issues at multilateral platforms.
Observers expect India to keep emphasizing the link between security, economic growth, and regional cooperation.
For India, the ARF was another chance to showcase its leadership in pushing for peace and stability in Asia.
The India zero tolerance to terror at ASEAN Forum message will likely shape conversations in future regional meetings.
