India-Central Asia Dialogue: Strengthening Cooperation Against Terrorism

The 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue concluded with a strong condemnation of terrorism, emphasizing the need for enhanced cooperation among nations. Following the tragic Pahalgan attack, ministers from India and five Central Asian countries reaffirmed their commitment to combat terrorism in all forms. They called for accountability for perpetrators and stressed the importance of UN-led global counterterrorism efforts. The dialogue also highlighted the significance of supporting a peaceful Afghanistan and fostering people-to-people ties through youth exchanges. With plans for future summits, the meeting aimed to strengthen regional collaboration against emerging challenges.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 7, 2025, 07:53 IST

India-Central Asia Dialogue Concludes with Strong Anti-Terrorism Stance

The recent 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue wrapped up with a firm denunciation of terrorism and a pledge to enhance regional collaboration, particularly in light of the tragic Pahalgan terror attack on April 22 that resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. The participating ministers reiterated their resolve to combat terrorism in all its forms, emphasizing the necessity for accountability for those who perpetrate, organize, finance, or sponsor such acts.

In their joint statement, the ministers expressed unequivocal condemnation of the Pahalgham attack, reaffirming their commitment to fight against terrorism in all its manifestations. They highlighted that providing refuge to terrorists, utilizing proxies for cross-border terrorism, financing terrorism, trafficking in arms and drugs, spreading radical ideologies, and misusing cyberspace to incite violence contradict fundamental humanitarian principles and international relations.

The foreign ministers from India and five Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—stressed the importance of bolstering UN-led global counterterrorism efforts and fully implementing relevant UN Security Council resolutions, the Global Counterterrorism Strategy, and FATF standards. They insisted that those responsible for terrorist acts must face justice and called for the prompt adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

The ministers acknowledged the significance of regular consultations among the National Security Councils of India and Central Asian countries to enhance counter-terrorism efforts and address emerging regional challenges. They expressed anticipation for the upcoming third round of consultations in the Kyrgyz Republic. Additionally, they committed to expanding collaboration in capacity building, with Central Asian foreign ministers recognizing India's successful training programs for Drug Law Enforcement Officers and initiatives on Countering Terrorism Financing.

The dialogue also underscored strong support for a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, free from terrorism, conflict, and drug-related issues. The ministers agreed to maintain close coordination on Afghan matters, emphasizing the need to support the Afghan populace.

Furthermore, the ministers appreciated the annual youth delegation visits from Central Asia to India, recognizing their role in fostering people-to-people connections. They noted the significant number of students from both regions studying in each other's institutions and stressed the importance of ensuring their welfare. The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to advancing mutual goals and deepening collaboration in preparation for the second India-Central Asia Summit, scheduled for 2025.

Chaired by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, the meeting concluded with a collective commitment to enhance counter-terrorism cooperation through institutional dialogue, legal coordination, and capacity building. The Central Asian ministers expressed gratitude to India for its warm hospitality during the dialogue and agreed to convene the next meeting in 2026.