In meeting with UK counterpart Cleverly, EAM Jaishankar raises concerns about security of diplomats

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his British counterpart Foreign Secretary James Cleverly in Jakarta, Indonesia on July 13, 2023. During the meeting, they discussed regional and global issues and jointly assessed the progress of the India-UK bilateral exchanges.

EAM Jaishankar also raised concerns about the security of Indian diplomats in the UK, following threats and attacks targeted at Indian diplomatic missions. Pro-Khalistan groups have issued posters inciting violence against senior Indian diplomats in the UK, as well as in the US, Canada, and Australia, triggering concerns in New Delhi.

Ensuring the safety of diplomats and the security of Indian missions is a paramount priority for the government. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, New Delhi has taken proactive measures by engaging with the concerned countries.

EAM Jaishankar's intervention comes days after National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval's communication with British counterpart Tim Barrow, where he urged for robust public measures, including deportation, to be taken against extremist factions that pose a threat to the officers of the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom.

In March, the tricolour flying atop the Indian High Commission in London was grabbed at by protesters chanting pro-Khalistan slogans. Following the incident, India registered a strong protest with the British government over the safety of its diplomatic mission and questioned the lack of sufficient security at the premises.

In the name of freedom of expression, space should not be given to those advocating violence or legitimizing terrorism, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had said following these incidents.

During their conversation, EAM Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Cleverly also discussed the subjects encompassed in the agenda of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), spanning both local and international issues. The ARF is a platform for security dialogue in the Asia-Pacific region, with 27 participants, including the US, China, Russia, UK, and India.

The forum is meant for promoting constructive dialogue, consultation, and building confidence among participating nations. Its primary objectives include fostering preventive diplomacy, facilitating regional cooperation, and addressing critical areas such as disaster relief, counter-terrorism, and maritime security. It prioritizes these vital aspects, to strengthen collaboration among member states and enhance stability and peace in the region.