He said that all UN member states should refrain from providing support to entities or individuals involved in terrorist acts and fulfil the obligations enshrined in relevant counter-terror conventions

NSA Ajit Doval made a strong case on Tuesday for countries in the region to prioritise counter-terrorism financing, claiming that monetary resources are the “lifeblood” of terrorism.

Doval also said that all UN member states should refrain from providing support to entities or individuals involved in terrorist acts and fulfil the obligations enshrined in relevant counter-terror conventions in his address to the inaugural India-Central Asia meeting of national security advisors.

He referred to Central Asia as India's “extended neighbourhood” and said that New Delhi gives the region the “highest priority.”

Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have NSAs in attendance, while Turkmenistan is represented by its ambassador to India.

“Afghanistan is a major concern for all of us. India's concerns and goals in terms of immediate priorities and the way forward are similar to those of many of us gathered around the table,” he said. 

Doval also said that connectivity with Central Asian countries is still a top priority for India and that the government is ready to collaborate, invest and build connectivity in the region.

Referring to China's Belt and Road Initiative, he said that while expanding connectivity, it is critical to ensure that connectivity initiatives are consultative, transparent and participatory, with respect for all countries’ sovereignty and territorial integrity.