Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called on the Netherlands to stop supplying arms to Pakistan, warning that such support undermines regional security. He emphasized cooperation between the two nations in defense and technology during a meeting with Dutch Minister Ruben Brekelmans. Singh also addressed concerns about anti-India activities by foreign groups.
On Tuesday, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged the Netherlands to refrain from supplying arms and advanced technology to Pakistan, emphasizing that such actions would jeopardize regional security. Singh conveyed these concerns during a meeting with his Dutch counterpart, Ruben Brekelmans, in New Delhi, highlighting India’s long-standing struggle against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.
Singh expressed that providing military assistance to Pakistan is detrimental and that nations aligned with India should not support a recognized terror sponsor. It is noteworthy that the Netherlands has historically collaborated with Pakistan in the naval sphere, having supplied second-hand minehunters and offshore patrol vessels to Islamabad.
During their discussions, the two ministers explored increasing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including defense, security, and technology. They specifically addressed opportunities in shipbuilding, equipment, and space technologies, and discussed collaboration in emerging fields like artificial intelligence as well as connecting their respective defense research institutes.
Additionally, Singh highlighted India’s apprehensions regarding the activities of the US-based group Sikhs for Justice, which calls for an independent Khalistan and has alleged ties with Pakistan’s intelligence agency. He emphasized to US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard the need to classify this group as a terrorist organization and curb its anti-India activities on American soil.
Singh has previously affirmed that India remains resolute in its commitment to counter-terrorism, stating that the nation will respond decisively to any attempts at disturbing peace, even pursuing these threats beyond its borders, including Pakistan.
In conclusion, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has urged the Netherlands to halt military support to Pakistan, asserting that such actions threaten regional stability. The discussions also opened avenues for strengthened cooperation between India and the Netherlands in various defense and technology sectors. Furthermore, Singh has raised concerns regarding foreign groups operating against India, reiterating India’s firm stance on counter-terrorism.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
