India and the US have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on law enforcement training between

The India-US Senior Officials’ Homeland Security Dialogue (HSD) held in New Delhi on Wednesday (February 28, 2024) marks a significant advancement in the strategic alliance between India and the United States.

This high-level meeting reiterated the shared resolve of both nations to combat a spectrum of security challenges, including terrorism, violent extremism, drug trafficking, and organized crime.

The respective sides were represented by Ajay Bhalla, Home Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, and Kristie Canegallo, Acting Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

A pivotal focus of the dialogue was the review and furtherance of ongoing cooperation in counter-terrorism and security, foundational pillars of the India-US strategic partnership. The discussions ventured into critical areas such as enhancing bilateral efforts to combat illegal migration, human trafficking, money laundering, cyber-crimes, and the misuse of the cyber domain for illicit activities, including terror financing.

The dialogue also reinforced the commitment of both countries to fortify the vibrant people-to-people connections by implementing measures to ensure safe and legal migration. A key outcome of the discussions was the mutual agreement on consolidating collaboration between the respective law enforcement agencies through information exchange, capacity building, technical assistance, and regular engagements of sub-groups under the HSD framework.

One of the highlights of the dialogue was the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation on law enforcement training between the US Federal Law Enforcement Training Centre and India’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy. This agreement promises to enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of law enforcement personnel in both countries.

Established in 2010 as an extension of the India-US Counterterrorism Initiative, the Homeland Security Dialogue has evolved into a crucial mechanism for bilateral engagement on security issues. The discussions during this latest meeting reflect a deepening commitment to a secure and prosperous future for both nations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in the face of global security threats.

Both parties have agreed to continue this constructive dialogue with the next round of discussions scheduled to take place in Washington DC at a mutually convenient date. This ongoing engagement is a testimonial to the dynamic and evolving partnership between India and the United States, aimed at addressing the multifaceted challenges of the 21st century and beyond.