NSA Ajit Doval delivers India's national statement at BIMSTEC meet in Myanmar

New Delhi: Ajit Doval, India's National Security Advisor (NSA), delivered India's national statement at the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) meeting, emphasising the importance of strengthening cooperation in counter-terrorism, combating drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and organised crime.

He also discussed enhancing BIMSTEC connectivity, holding the second Ports Conclave, and ensuring water security of the Himalayan river systems.

Doval is leading the Indian delegation at the 4th Annual Meeting of BIMSTEC Security Chiefs, held today in Naypyitaw, Myanmar. Yesterday, he met with Myanmar's NSA Admiral Moe Aung, and the BIMSTEC Security Chiefs called on Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

Ajit Doval has served as India's National Security Advisor since 2014. Known for his expertise in security and intelligence, Doval has played a crucial role in shaping India's counter-terrorism strategies and strengthening international security collaborations.

BIMSTEC, established in 1997, is a regional organization comprising seven member states lying in the littoral and adjacent areas of the Bay of Bengal. These countries include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. BIMSTEC aims to enhance economic cooperation and technical collaboration among its member states. The organization's areas of focus include trade, technology, energy, transport, tourism, and fisheries, with increasing emphasis on security and counter-terrorism in recent years.

State funeral of General Secretary H.E. Nguyen Phu Trong in Hanoi

In addition to his duties at the BIMSTEC meeting, Doval attended the state funeral of General Secretary H.E. Nguyen Phu Trong in Hanoi. He conveyed India's condolences personally to President To Lam, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and the bereaved family.

General Secretary H.E. Nguyen Phu Trong, a prominent Vietnamese leader, passed away recently, prompting a state funeral attended by several international dignitaries. His death marks a significant moment for Vietnam, as Nguyen Phu Trong was instrumental in the country's political and economic policies. NSA Ajit Doval's attendance at the funeral highlights the close diplomatic ties between India and Vietnam, and his personal conveyance of condolences signifies India's respect and solidarity with Vietnam during this period of mourning.