India, Bahrain send strong message against use of terror as tool of state policy

BIARRITZ (FRANCE): India and Bahrain without naming Pakistan have called on states to stop using terror as an instrument of state policy in what can been viewed as a shot in the arm for Delhi amid Pak PM Imran Khan’s rhetoric on Kashmir.

“Both sides called on all states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries; dismantle terrorism infrastructures where they happen to exist and to cut off any kind of support and financing to the terrorists perpetrating terrorism from all territories against other states; and bring perpetrators of acts of terrorism to justice,” according to the joint statement issued today at the end of first ever Indian PM visit to Bahrain. PM Narendra Modi will reach Biarritz on Sunday evening for G-7 summit and other key bilateral
meetings.


The support of Bahrain besides UAE is also significant in strengthening India’s position against Pak-sponsored terror and its attempt to push infiltrators in the backdrop of moves in Kashmir by the Modi government.

“Both sides reaffirmed their condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, regardless of the identity of the perpetrators and their motives, and they agreed to further enhance cooperation in the field of security, counter-terrorism and the exchange of intelligence and information,” according to the joint statement.

The two sides also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The two sides also noted the need for concerted action by the international community against terrorism including through early adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism and underlined the importance of comprehensive sanctioning of terrorists and their organizations by the UN.

The two sides discussed ways and means to further promote cooperation in cyber security, including prevention of use of cyber space for terrorism, radicalization and for disturbing social harmony.

Prime Minister congratulated Bahrain on the recent discovery of huge oil and Gas reserves. The Indian side highlighted the interest of its energy companies to pursue opportunities of conventional exploration as well as development of newly discovered oil and gas assets in Bahrain.

The two sides on Saturday signed Memorandum of Understanding between BENEFIT and NPCI for Launch of "RuPay Card’ in Bahrain. UAE became first Gulf state to launch RuPay Card on Saturday.

The two leaders agreed to enhance cooperation to strengthen maritime security in the Gulf region, vital for the security and safety of sea lanes.