Ajit Doval meets Russian counterpart in Moscow, reviews security and energy ties

Ajit Doval said responsible nations must make clear choices on whether they support sponsors of terrorism or counter them with decisive action.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on Thursday said there cannot be “double standards” in the fight against terrorism, as he addressed the first International Security Forum and the 14th Meeting of High Representatives for Security Matters in Moscow.

NSA Ajit Doval and his Russian counterpart, Sergei Shoigu, also exchanged views on the upcoming BRICS NSA meeting in New Delhi. (HT Photo)

Doval also met his counterpart Mr. Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation on the sidelines of the forum. They reviewed ongoing cooperation in defence, security, energy and economic ties. The two sides also exchanged views on the upcoming BRICS NSA meeting in New Delhi.

Doval participated in the meeting hosted by Shoigu on May 28, according to an official statement.

The forum focused on “Challenges and Threats to International Security in the context of the Emergence of the Multipolar World”.

Addressing the gathering, Doval said responsible nations must make clear choices on whether they support sponsors of terrorism or counter them with decisive action.

“There cannot be double standards in the fight against terrorism,” the NSA said, while stressing the need for a unified global response to terror threats.

He said reforms should ensure greater representation for countries of the Global South and incorporate their views in global decision-making processes.

Highlighting the situation in West Asia, Doval said ensuring the safe and uninterrupted movement of trade through key international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, was essential.

The NSA is also expected to hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the forum on May 28 and 29.