India and Indonesia recently criticized the use of terrorist groups to carry out attacks across borders, focusing on Pakistan’s support for terror groups targeting Jammu and Kashmir. This issue was discussed during the sixth meeting of the India-Indonesia joint working group on counter-terrorism in Jakarta.

What is Cross-Border Terrorism?

Cross-border terrorism occurs when terrorist groups based in one country carry out attacks in another country. This type of terrorism is particularly harmful because it not only endangers the security of the targeted country but also strains international relations. Addressing cross-border terrorism requires countries to work together, sharing intelligence and strategies to combat these threats.

Joint Working Group Meeting on Counter-Terrorism

India and Indonesia recently held the sixth meeting of their joint working group on counter-terrorism in Jakarta. This meeting was focused on how the two countries can cooperate to fight terrorism more effectively. Both nations strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms, particularly the use of terrorist groups by one country to attack another, which they see as a serious threat to regional peace and security.

Key Focus Areas

During the meeting, several important topics were discussed, including:

• Cross-Border Terrorism: The use of terrorist proxies, or groups supported by one country to attack another, was a major concern. India specifically pointed out Pakistan’s support for terrorist groups targeting the region of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Emerging Technologies: The misuse of new technologies by terrorists was another key focus. Terrorists are increasingly using the internet and other digital tools to spread their message, plan attacks, and raise funds. The meeting emphasized the need to monitor and prevent these activities.
• Terror Financing: The link between terrorism financing and organized crime was also discussed. Cutting off financial support for terrorism is crucial for weakening these groups.

Use of Technology by Terrorists

A significant part of the discussions revolved around the misuse of technology by terrorists. The internet has become a powerful tool for these groups to recruit members, spread propaganda, and fund their operations. Both India and Indonesia agreed that there needs to be better cooperation in tracking and preventing these activities. They also stressed the importance of sharing information about terrorist threats and working together in international forums like the United Nations and the ASEAN Regional Forum to strengthen global counter-terrorism efforts.

Delegations

The Indian delegation was led by K D Dewal, the Joint Secretary (Counter-Terrorism) in the Ministry of External Affairs. Andhika Chrisnayudhanto, the Deputy for International Cooperation at the National Counter Terrorism Agency, headed the Indonesian delegation. Both sides committed to continuing their cooperation to ensure better security and to tackle the evolving challenges posed by terrorism.