Be vigilant, Antony tells army after Kabul attacks

Defence minister AK Antony on Monday described the security situation in Afghanistan-Pakistan region as a "continuing cause of concern" and called upon the armed forces to be more vigilant in view of the latest terror attacks by the Taliban in Kabul.

Defence minister AK Antony on Monday described the security situation in Afghanistan-Pakistan region as a "continuing cause of concern" and called upon the armed forces to be more vigilant in view of the latest terror attacks by the Taliban in Kabul.

However, he reiterated India's commitment in supporting and assisting Afghanistan for its development. “India remains steadfast in its commitment to provide support and assistance to Afghanistan so that it evolves into a stable country, strengthened by pluralism and free from external interference,” he said.

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During the three-day conference, the army will assess its preparedness in the light of the prevailing security situation in the country and its immediate neighbourhood.

Antony called upon defence forces and other security agencies to remain prepared to tackle the entire range of security challenges.

"Balancing the imperatives of engaging globally with other powers and maintaining autonomy in decision-making is one of the most important challenges of our times," he added. Referring to sharp increase in the defence spending by China, Antony said: “We will continue to bolster our infrastructure and strengthen our capabilities along the border areas. However, our efforts are focused on safeguarding our security interests and not dictated by what other nations are doing".