Transnational and cross-border terrorism gravest threat: Rajnath Singh

Defence minister Rajnath Singh has described transnational and cross-border terrorism as the gravest threat that the world is facing, and called for urgent and resolute intervention by the international community.

Singh said, "The gravest threat requiring urgent and resolute intervention by the international community is transnational and cross-border terrorism. Indifference can no longer be a response, as terrorism has found victims globally." He was speaking at the 9th Asean Defence Ministers Meeting in Cambodia.

Singh pointed to terrorist groups creating interlinkages across continents backed by new-age technologies to transfer money and recruit supporters. "The transformation of cyber-crimes into organised cyber-attacks point to the increasing use of new technologies, by both, state and non-state actors," he added.

Amid China's assertiveness, Singh said: "India calls for a free, open and inclusive order in the Indo-Pacific, based upon respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and adherence to international rules and laws."