Military

Grim security scenario in Pakistan a cause for worry: India

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

New Delhi, April 20, IRNA -- Grim security scenario in Pakistan is a source of worry for the region and the international community, said India's Defense Minister A K Antony on Monday.

"Terror attacks in Mumbai have gravely undermined peace and security in the region," said Antony while addressing the top brass of the Indian Army at the Commanders' Conference, in News Delhi.

He said that despite being provided with irrefutable evidence, the Pakistani government has not displayed the sincerity and decisiveness in dealing with the perpetrators of such attacks.

He said that Pakistan either refuses to, or is incapable of, dismantling the terror infrastructure on its soil.

Antony, however, added that India is firmly committed to safeguard the lives of the people at any cost and has taken several measures to beef up the security, particularly in coastal areas.

He said the recent developments in SWAT and Federally Administered Tribal Areas, FATA in Pakistan are ominous signs not only for the region but the entire world.

Referring to the situation in Sri Lanka, he said the ethnic conflict has a potential spill over effect on India.

Antony said, India and indeed the entire south Asian region stand to gain from a political solution and restoration of peace in the island nation.

As far as Sino-Indian relations are concerned, the defense minister said that the scope for cooperation and competition exists in equal measure.

He said that though New Delhi desires peaceful relations between the two nations, India must constantly upgrade its military and economic capabilities and cannot afford to remain complacent.

The defense minister paid glowing tributes to the jawans and Officers, who laid down their lives in the service of the nation.

The four-day conference will focus on macro level issues pertaining to military strategy, operational logistics and matters impacting the welfare and enhancement of satisfaction level amongst all ranks.