IORA Needs To Be Responsive On Potential Acts Of Terrorism

JAKARTA, IORA – IORA’s Declaration on Preventing and Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism has a significant influence on economic cooperation across the Indian Ocean region. "IORA wants to address today’s world challenges—on the fight against extremism and terrorism," IORA Secretary General K.V. Bhagirath said after attending IORA Summit’s Senior Officials Meeting at the Jakarta Convention Center, Sunday (3/5). He stated that security and stability must be maintained to protect the region from terrorism which can bring adverse impact on economic cooperation among IORA member states. Terrorism can happen anywhere including in the Indian Ocean region. Thus, IORA member states have to find its solution. "We are currently bringing IORA to be more responsive to potential acts of terrorism that occurred across the globe," he said. For 20 years, IORA has been intensifying the establishment of economic cooperation. Today, the vigilant awareness against threat and terrorism must be taken seriously. “In fact, the region’s protection and security issues were raised two years ago. However up until now, the issues drew the attention of IORA member states and seven dialogue partners. Protection and maritime security are all-important to be realized by IORA today," he said. (Translator: SC)