India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh urged the Netherlands not to arm Pakistan, calling it a known sponsor of terrorism. This request was made during a meeting with Dutch Minister Ruben Brekelmans, where they also discussed enhancing bilateral defense cooperation. Singh expressed concerns regarding terrorist activities linked to Pakistan and emphasized India’s determination to combat terrorism.
On Tuesday, India urged the Netherlands to refrain from supplying weapons to Pakistan, citing the latter’s status as a sponsor of terrorism. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh raised these concerns during a meeting with Dutch counterpart Ruben Brekelmans in New Delhi. He emphasized that equipping Pakistan was a threat to regional stability and encouraged nations aligned with India not to support known terrorists.
The Netherlands and Pakistan have collaborated in naval domains, with Amsterdam previously supplying second-hand minehunters and offshore patrol vessels to Islamabad. However, India seeks to reevaluate this relationship and promote security within the region.
During their discussion, Singh and Brekelmans also explored enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors including defense, security, information sharing, and technological advancements in the Indo-Pacific region. They identified potential collaborative opportunities in shipbuilding, equipment, and space sectors, along with artificial intelligence and defense technology research.
Singh expressed his satisfaction regarding the meeting via a post on social media, highlighting his discussions with Brekelmans on defense, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. He indicated the intention to fortify defense ties between the two nations.
In addition to his discussions with the Dutch minister, Singh raised concerns about the US-based secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) and its connections to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence during a meeting with Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence. Singh urged the designation of SFJ as a terrorist entity due to its destabilizing activities in India.
Previously, Singh had articulated a firm stance on terrorism, declaring that India would respond robustly to any threats posed by terrorists, including those originating from Pakistan. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating terrorism effectively, even beyond its borders.
In summary, the meeting between Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and his Dutch counterpart highlighted India’s concerns regarding arms supply to Pakistan, which it views as a threat to regional security. The discussions also focused on enhancing bilateral defense cooperation and the potential for collaboration in various technological sectors. Singh’s broader concerns regarding terrorism and the activities of the SFJ illustrate India’s persistent commitment to national security.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
