India and Egypt have reaffirmed their strategic commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms during the 4th Meeting of the Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism, which took place in Cairo. This meeting marks a crucial advancement in the collaborative efforts of both nations to address a spectrum of conventional and emerging security challenges.
One of the key highlights of the session was the strong condemnation from both countries regarding the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which specifically targeted domestic and international tourists. Egypt expressed unwavering solidarity with India, emphasizing its support in the ongoing fight against terrorism that threatens to undermine peace and security in the region.
The discussions featured prominent representatives, including Ambassador KD Dewal, Joint Secretary for Counter Terrorism at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Ambassador Walid Al-Fiqi, Director of the Department of Counter Terrorism at Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Delegates from various agencies participated, delving into strategies to enhance cooperation in areas such as the counteraction of cryptocurrencies, unmanned aerial systems, and the dissemination of extremist propaganda via cyberspace.
Both nations agreed to intensify efforts in critical sectors such as anti-money laundering, drug trafficking, and the fight against transnational organized crime. There was a consensus on the need for improved training and capacity-building initiatives, along with the integration of advanced technologies—including Artificial Intelligence (AI)—to boost counter-terrorism capabilities.
On an international level, the delegations explored methods to enhance coordination in global forums such as the United Nations, BRICS, the Global Counter Terrorism Forum (GCTF), and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). They reiterated their mutual support for the early adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT), a long-awaited initiative aimed at strengthening global counter-terrorism efforts.
Looking ahead, the next meeting of the Joint Working Group is scheduled to take place in India at a mutually agreed time.
This engagement underscores the deepening bilateral relationship between India and Egypt, characterized by consistent diplomatic interactions, military collaboration, and shared interests on global platforms. The year 2024 is set to be significant, with joint air force exercises and the 10th Joint Defence Committee meeting in New Delhi, further solidifying the commitment of both countries to regional and global security.
