Ajit Doval slams double standards on terror, backs open Hormuz

New Delhi: NSA Ajit Doval, speaking at a Forum in Moscow on Thursday, emphasised that there cannot be double standards in the fight against terrorism and called for unimpeded navigation via Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking at the first International Security Forum and the 14th Meeting of High Representatives for Security Matters in Moscow, Doval also delivered a strong message on terrorism, saying there could not be "double standards" in tackling the threat.

"Responsible nations have to evaluate their choices and decide whether they support sponsors of terrorism or counter them with decisive action," he said.


Doval noted that uninterrupted trade movement through critical waterways was essential amid rising geopolitical tensions in the region.

"It is essential to ensure the safe and uninterrupted movement of trade through international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea," he said while calling for special attention to the situation in West Asia.

The NSA also called for urgent reforms in global institutions created after the Second World War in 1945, arguing that existing structures needed to adapt to present-day security realities.

He said institutions dealing with international security must become more effective in responding to contemporary threats and should provide greater representation to countries from the Global South.

Later meeting his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu, Doval praised the 'multifaceted' India-Russia partnership, and highlighted 'further broader cooperation'. They focused on cooperation in defence, security, energy and economic ties. The two sides exchanged views on the upcoming BRICS NSA meeting in New Delhi in June-end.