India and Singapore have strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms during the 5th meeting of the India-Singapore Joint Working Group (JWG) on Combating Terrorism and Transnational Crime. The meeting took place in New Delhi, where both nations articulated their zero tolerance policy against this global threat. A statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) following the meeting underscored their commitment to work together in counter-terrorism efforts.

The JWG took a firm stance on recent acts of violence, particularly condemning the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, and another incident near the Red Fort in New Delhi on November 10, 2025. The statement highlighted the need for accountability regarding those who commit acts of terrorism.

Co-chaired by Vinod Bahade, Joint Secretary (Counter Terrorism) in the MEA, and Ngiam Shih Chun, Deputy Secretary (Policy) from Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs, the meeting emphasised the significance of bilateral cooperation to counter terrorism on a broader scale.

Cooperation on Information Sharing and Accountability Discussed

The discussions during the JWG meeting encompassed a wide range of security challenges, including the recruitment of terrorists, transnational movement of individuals engaged in terrorism, radicalisation, and the misuse of technology for terrorist purposes. Both delegations acknowledged the necessity of enhanced information-sharing mechanisms, which are essential for effective responses to cross-border terrorism threats.

Additionally, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate on tackling terrorist groups listed under the UN Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee. The conversation also ensured that comprehensive measures are maintained to hold terrorists accountable for their actions, which involves international cooperation.

Agreement was reached on various fronts to strengthen bilateral cooperation in tackling both traditional and emerging challenges in the sphere of security. This includes countering illegal drug trafficking, cybercrime, and analysing the connection between transnational organised crime and terrorism.

Future Engagement and Initiatives Reinforced Through Visits

As part of their commitment to ongoing cooperation, the Singapore delegation visited India’s Anti-Scam Centre. This visit aimed to discuss strategies to tackle transnational scams that pose serious challenges to both nations. The MEA noted that both sides expressed a strong desire to enhance coordination through information exchange and capacity-building initiatives.

The two countries agree on the importance of an international approach to combat transnational crime and terrorism, recognising that shared challenges necessitate a unified strategy. They stressed the need for sustained bilateral engagements that will leverage their shared resources and expertise in countering these threats.

The next meeting of the Joint Working Group on Combating Terrorism and Transnational Crime is scheduled to be held in Singapore on a mutually agreed date. Both nations are optimistic about advancing their cooperative efforts in the fight against terrorism and related crimes as they prepare for this forthcoming engagement.

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