ASEAN plans counter-terrorism exercises in Malaysia and India

India and Malaysia are planning counter-terrorism exercises as part of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus. They announced a table-top exercise in Malaysia for 2026 and a field training exercise in India for 2027. This is part of a wider work plan for 2024-2027, focusing on strengthening cooperation against terrorism. The announcement comes after a two-day meeting of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Working Group on Counter-Terrorism in New Delhi. Delegates from several ASEAN nations and dialogue partners, including the US, China, and Australia, participated to discuss strategies for combating terrorism and extremism. Earlier in the week, the European Union hosted a workshop in New Delhi. This event focused on techniques to prevent and counter violent extremism. Experts from various EU member states and Indian security agencies shared best practices on issues like de-radicalization and rehabilitation of extremists. During the workshop, participants emphasized the need for cooperation on security measures related to counterterrorism. They discussed government approaches, risk evaluations, and reintegration strategies for violent extremists. The EU and India have previously collaborated on counterterrorism, with a significant focus on online terrorist content since 2022. Their discussions highlight a mutual commitment to enhance international cooperation to combat terrorism and its financing effectively.