14th meeting of the India-United Kingdom Joint Working Group (JWC) on Counter-Terrorism 2021 was held virtually on 21st and 22nd January, 2021 where both nations emphasised for strengthening international cooperation to combat the global menace of terrorism.
Discussions were held to combat terrorism during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Participants:
- Indian side was represented by Mahaveer Singhvi, Joint Secretary for Counter Terrorism in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
- The United Kingdom (UK) side was represented by Tom Hurd, Director General, Office of Security and Counter-Terrorism.
Key Points:
–Both nations reviewed the threats posed by UN-proscribed terrorists and terrorist entities and discussed ways to counter them.
–It was advised that all countries should take immediate action to ensure that no territory under their control is used for terrorist attacks.
–The two sides exchanged ideas for further strengthening of bilateral cooperation to counter-terrorism including countering radicalisation and violent extremism, combating financing of terrorism, preventing exploitation of the internet for terrorism, law enforcement cooperation, information sharing, aviation and maritime security and capacity building.
Recent Related News:
i.To strengthen the bilateral cooperation and mutual understanding in the field of Telecommunications, and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) between India and the United Kingdom (UK), the Union cabinet has approved the signing of MoU between Ministry of Communications, India and the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sports (DCMS) of the UK Government for co-operation in telecommunications.
ii.Cabinet approved the MoU between the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), India and the United Kingdom Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (UK MHRA) on cooperation in the field of medical Product Regulation.
About United Kingdom (UK):
Capital– London
Currency– Pound sterling
Prime Minister– Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson
