The two-day meeting held in New Delhi, which brought together ASEAN defense ministers and dialogue partner countries, was highly significant for developing a joint strategy against global terrorism. The main goal of this meeting was to share the experiences of ASEAN countries and their defense partners. It included representatives from the 10 ASEAN member countries, along with eight dialogue partners—Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, China, the United States, and Russia. Representatives from Timor-Leste and the ASEAN Secretariat also attended. This entire group is known as ADMM-Plus, which aims to promote cooperation between defense forces.

Under ADMM-Plus, seven key areas are prioritized: counter-terrorism, maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster management, peacekeeping, military medicine, mine action, and cybersecurity. To ensure in-depth discussions and cooperation in these areas, Expert Working Groups (EWG) have been formed, with co-chairmanship for three years. From 2021 to 2024, Myanmar and Russia co-chaired the EWG on counter-terrorism, and for the 2024-27 cycle, India and Malaysia have taken over. As part of this, India hosted the first meeting of the current cycle and, for the first time, became the co-chair of the counter-terrorism expert group.

During the meeting, representatives from ASEAN and other partner countries shared their views on the best ways to combat terrorism. This meeting was particularly important as countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar continue to struggle with jihadist terrorism. During the Cold War, the Non-Aligned Movement played a key role in this region, with leaders from India and Indonesia working towards regional peace.

After the 9/11 attacks in the United States, the global fight against terrorism intensified. A coalition was formed under U.S. leadership, with India indirectly supporting it. However, both countries have different approaches to tackling terrorism. Recently, in meetings held in February and March, ASEAN and Indian officials focused on regional trade zones and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Terrorism continues to evolve globally. With the rise of Al-Qaeda and ISIS, sleeper cells and terror networks pose a threat to any country’s security. This makes the New Delhi meeting even more relevant. During the opening session, India's Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh highlighted that terrorism is a growing challenge, with threats that go beyond borders. He also mentioned India's efforts in this area, including the adoption of the Delhi Declaration in 2022 when India chaired the UN Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (UNSC CTC). This declaration focused on preventing the misuse of new technologies for terrorist purposes.

During the meeting, all countries agreed to implement the best global practices in fighting terrorism. Since human security is the top priority in today's world, Asian nations must strengthen their unity against terrorism. India and Malaysia also signed agreements for joint military exercises and training programs for 2026-27. India has taken a strong stance against terrorism, following a zero-tolerance policy, and has gained a lead over many other nations in this matter.

However, a major challenge in global counter-terrorism efforts is that definitions of terrorism differ. One country may see an individual as a "freedom fighter," while another country may label the same person a "terrorist." Additionally, opinions on America’s security role in Asia vary. While Japan and South Korea believe that the U.S. should maintain its security presence in the region, some other Asian nations think that the U.S. should shift its focus to Ukraine to stop Russia’s expansion there.

Another key challenge for ASEAN countries and India is dealing with AI-driven propaganda, cyber terrorism, and the increasing use of drones for terrorist activities. India's "Act East" policy prioritizes proactive measures and preparedness against terrorism, forming the foundation of its strategy in the region.

Ultimately, the meeting reaffirmed all nations' commitment to maintaining sovereignty, regional integrity, and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs. This gathering not only strengthened regional security cooperation but also highlighted the growing partnership between India and ASEAN in the global fight against terrorism.