18 June 2009

U.S.-India Counterterrorism Joint Working Group, June 18, 2009

Bureau of Public Affairs
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC

Delegates from the United States and India held the 11th U.S.-India Counterterrorism Joint Working Group on June 17 to discuss efforts to coordinate global counterterrorism initiatives. Coordinator for Counterterrorism Daniel Benjamin hosted the event, and Special Secretary for International Organizations Vivek Katju led the Indian delegation.

India and the United States strongly condemned terrorism in all of its forms and manifestations, recognizing it as a major threat to democracy, international peace, and security. They reiterated that there can be no justification for any act of terrorism on any grounds. It is imperative for the international community to come together to combat terrorism in a long-term, sustained, and comprehensive manner. India and the United States also called upon all states to abide by their commitments under the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy adopted by the UN General Assembly in September 2006.

Sessions during this year’s meeting focused on assessing the global terrorist threat, fighting terrorism through technological advancements, and counterterrorism cooperation between India and the United States. Other issues discussed included terrorist finance and money laundering, capacity building, and expanded information sharing. Both sides agreed to identify measures to strengthen institutional linkages leading to closer interaction and cooperation.

The next meeting of the Joint Working Group will take place in India on a mutually convenient date.