Tulsi Gabbard, U.S. Director of National Intelligence, visited New Delhi for discussions with India’s NSA Ajit Doval. They focused on enhancing intelligence sharing and security cooperation in the face of global challenges. Gabbard also chaired a global intelligence conclave with representatives from major ally nations, addressing ongoing issues such as terrorism and geopolitical tensions, notably between India and Canada.
On a significant visit to New Delhi, Tulsi Gabbard, the U.S. Director of National Intelligence, engaged in discussions with India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This meeting, part of her two-and-a-half-day trip, marked her first high-level visit to India during her tenure within the Trump administration. The primary focus of their dialogue was enhancing intelligence sharing and security collaboration in line with the India-U.S. strategic partnership.
During the talks, officials highlighted a productive exchange on critical issues such as counter-terrorism, emerging technological threats, and security in the strategically vital Indo-Pacific region. The two leaders emphasized the importance of their cooperation in combating various security challenges that the nations face jointly.
Furthermore, Doval chaired a global intelligence conclave in Delhi, attended by intelligence chiefs from countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, and New Zealand. Although details of the discussions remained confidential, sources indicated that principal topics included countering terror financing, addressing money laundering, and deliberating on extradition matters. Concerns regarding anti-India factions, notably pro-Khalistan groups operating abroad, were also part of the agenda.
In addition to her meetings in India, Gabbard is on a broader international trip that includes stops in Japan, Thailand, and France. She is scheduled to speak at the prestigious Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi and recently met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Washington, D.C. This trip marks her second international engagement since her appointment as the U.S. intelligence chief, following her participation in the Munich Security Conference last month.
Moreover, the context of Gabbard’s visit occurs amidst rising tensions between India and Canada over the assassination of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau previously alleged possible involvement of Indian agents in this incident, a claim which India has vehemently rejected. Doval is expected to address this matter further during his meeting with Canadian spy chief Daniel Rogers, as diplomatic relations between these two nations remain strained.
In conclusion, Tulsi Gabbard’s visit to India underscored the commitment of both nations to bolster intelligence sharing and security cooperation amidst complex geopolitical dynamics. The meetings not only addressed critical security challenges but also highlighted ongoing tensions with Canada. The dialogues reaffirm the strategic partnership between India and the United States, particularly regarding counter-terrorism and technological threats.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
