Astana: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on October 17 underscored the importance of connectivity and economic integration with the Central Asian countries and said that it is a key priority for India.
“Connectivity and economic integration with the Central Asian countries is a key priority for India. However, while promoting connectivity, it is important to ensure that connectivity initiatives are consultative, transparent and participatory,” he said while participating in the second meeting of the India-Central Asia Secretaries/National Security Advisers of the Security Councils in Kazakhstan.
The meeting hosted by Kazakhstan was attended by the National Security Advisers/Secretaries of the National Security Councils of India, the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan and the Republic of Uzbekistan. Moreover, Turkmenistan was represented by their Embassy in Astana.
Doval said that they (Central Asian countries) should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. “They should also adhere to environmental parameters, ensure financial viability and not become debt burdens,” he added. However, he said that the absence of direct land access between Central Asia and India is an anomaly.
“This absence of direct connectivity is the result of a conscious policy of denial by a particular country. This situation is not only self-defeating for this country but it also reduces the collective well-being of the entire region,” he added.
Notably, India is a member of both the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the Ashgabat Agreement. Doval further invited the Central Asian neighbours to utilize the Chabahar port as well as its Shaheed Bahesti terminal operated by India.
Doval also spoke of the relations between India and the Central Asian countries including in the political, trade, economy, security and defence fields that have transformed into multifaceted and mutually beneficial relations based on mutual trust, understanding and friendship.
“Central Asia and India face common security challenges and threats. Malign actors from interconnected networks threaten our shared neighbourhood,” he said. Doval further highlighted Digital Public Infrastructure, noting that India is ready to provide technology patented by its Central Bank, also known as United Payment Interface (UPI) free of cost to Central Asian countries for their independent use. He said it will also help businessmen and Indian students, studying in Central Asian countries.
