India-Japan 10th Joint Working Group: Strengthening the Global Counter-Terrorism Architecture

Furthermore, the JWG emphasized the critical link between counter-terrorism and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. Given the shared vision of a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific' (FOIP), both countries agreed to enhance information sharing and capacity-building measures to secure sea lanes against piracy and maritime terrorism. The discussions also touched upon the importance of disrupting terror-funding networks and the need for all countries to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action against terrorist safe havens. India also utilized the forum to reiterate its call for the early finalization of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the United Nations. By aligning with Japan—a technological powerhouse and a key member of the Quad—India seeks to build a robust international consensus against state-sponsored and cross-border terrorism. UPSC Relevance: This development is highly relevant for GS Paper II (International Relations) regarding bilateral agreements and GS Paper III (Internal Security) concerning the role of external state and non-state actors. It provides a contemporary case study for answers on the evolving nature of terrorism, specifically the challenges posed by new technologies and the strategic importance of the India-Japan security pillar in the Indo-Pacific.