Benaulim (Goa): In a veiled disapproval of terror sponsored from across the border, India and Russia today strongly pushed for steps to deny safe havens for terror and called for an early conclusion of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) by the UN to tackle the menace.

The strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations came forth in a joint statement issued by the two countries after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, an engagement that took place against the backdrop of the Uri attack and the subsequent surgical strikes.

The two leaders also favoured a strong global legal regime on the principle of “zero tolerance” to the menace and without adopting double standards.

“India and Russia recognise the threat posed by terrorism, and believe that the full implementation of the relevant UNSC resolutions, the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy without application of any double standards or selectivity will be instrumental in countering this challenge.

“They stressed the need to deny safe havens to terrorists and the importance of countering the spread of terrorist ideology as well as radicalization leading to terrorism, stopping recruitment, preventing travel of terrorists and foreign terrorist fighters, strengthening border management and having effective legal assistance and extradition arrangements,” the joint statement said.

At a joint press briefing, Modi conveyed to Putin his appreciation of Russia’s unequivocal condemnation of the Uri attack during their talks on terrorism, including that emanating from Pakistan.

“Russia’s clear stand on the need to combat terrorism mirrors our own. We deeply appreciate Russia’s understanding and support of our actions to fight cross-border terrorism, that threatens our entire region. We both affirmed the need for zero tolerance in dealing with terrorists and their supporters,” Modi said.

Putin, on his part, said both the countries were united in dealing with the challenge of terrorism.

 

 

PTI