India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval Calls for Unified Global Action Against Terrorism at Moscow Security Forum

In a firm and principled address at the inaugural International Security Forum in Moscow, India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval underscored the urgent need for the international community to adopt a consistent and uncompromising approach to combating terrorism. He highlighted the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack as a grim reminder of the enduring threat posed by cross-border terrorism and its sponsors.

Doval was participating in the first International Security Forum along with the 14th Meeting of High Representatives for Security Matters. The event, hosted by Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, brought together senior officials from various countries to deliberate on global security challenges in an increasingly multipolar world.

NSA Aji Doval met his counterpart Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation on the sidelines of the first International Security Forum.(Photo | X / @IndEmbMoscow) | New Indian Express

The Pahalgam Attack and Its Implications

Doval drew the attention of the gathering to the brutal terror incident that occurred on April 22, 2025, in the scenic Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. In this targeted attack, 26 innocent civilians, primarily tourists, lost their lives, while several others were injured. Reports indicated that the assailants singled out victims based on religion before carrying out the killings. The Resistance Front (TRF), widely regarded as a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), had claimed responsibility for the massacre.

Describing the incident as a stark example of state-sponsored terrorism, Doval noted that India has long borne the brunt of such attacks. He emphasised that the Pahalgam tragedy highlighted vulnerabilities in global security frameworks and the need for stronger international cooperation to dismantle terror networks and their enablers.

No Room for Double Standards

At the heart of Doval’s message was a clear rejection of selective approaches in the fight against terrorism. He asserted that nations must make a definitive choice: support genuine counter-terrorism efforts or continue to back those who promote and sponsor violence.

“There cannot be double standards in the fight against terrorism,” Doval stated. “Responsible nations have to evaluate their choices and decide whether they support sponsors of terrorism or counter them with decisive action.”

He called upon the global community to move beyond political expediency and adopt a uniform, zero-tolerance policy that holds all perpetrators and their backers accountable, regardless of geopolitical considerations.

Strengthening India-Russia Strategic Partnership

Doval expressed India’s appreciation to Russia, President Vladimir Putin, and Sergei Shoigu for their prompt and strong condemnation of the Pahalgam attack. He described the India-Russia relationship as a “deep, long-standing strategic and special partnership” that continues to serve as a pillar of stability amid evolving global dynamics.

On the sidelines of the forum, Doval held detailed bilateral discussions with his Russian counterpart. The two sides reviewed cooperation in key areas including defence, energy security, trade, and technology. They also looked ahead to upcoming multilateral engagements, such as the BRICS NSA meeting scheduled in New Delhi.

Broader Global Security Concerns

Beyond terrorism, Doval addressed several pressing international issues. He advocated for reforms in global institutions to better reflect the realities of a multipolar world, giving greater voice to the Global South and emerging economies. He also highlighted the importance of ensuring maritime security, particularly safe navigation through critical waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, which have faced disruptions due to regional tensions in West Asia.

The MGMM Outlook 

India’s strong message at the Moscow Security Forum once again highlighted the global threat posed by terrorism and the dangers of remaining silent against its sponsors. Ajit Doval’s remarks reflected India’s long-standing stand that terrorism cannot be judged selectively based on political interests or diplomatic convenience. By bringing attention to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack, India reinforced the reality that innocent civilians continue to suffer because certain nations still shelter and encourage extremist networks. The speech also exposed the failure of inconsistent international policies that condemn terrorism in one region while ignoring it elsewhere.

The discussions in Moscow also demonstrated India’s growing influence in shaping global security conversations in an increasingly multipolar world. India’s partnership with Russia continues to remain strategically important in areas such as defence, energy, and technology, while also helping strengthen cooperation against emerging security threats. Alongside counter-terrorism, India’s emphasis on maritime security, reforms in global institutions, and the role of the Global South reflected a broader vision for international stability. The forum showcased India as a nation advocating firm action, strategic balance, and stronger global cooperation against threats that endanger peace and security worldwide.

(Sources: News18, New Indian Express, Firstpost)