New Delhi, July 23
India and the United States today signed a Counter Terrorism Initiative that would facilitate access to the data of criminals, terrorists, sharing of real-time intelligence and building up of security network alongside forensic laboratories.

The text of the initiative was finalised during the visit of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the US in November 2009. But, the pact was signed today by Union Home Secretary G.K. Pillai and US Ambassador to India Timothy J. Roemer on behalf of the two nations. The move seeks to further enhance cooperation between the two countries, especially in countering terrorism.

India and the US would take various steps, including strengthening capabilities to effectively combat terrorism, promotion of exchanges regarding modernisation of techniques, sharing of best practices on the issues of mutual interest, development of investigative skills and promotion of cooperation between forensic science laboratories.

Besides, stress would be laid on the establishment of procedures to provide mutual investigative assistance; enhancing capabilities to act against money laundering, counterfeit currency and financing of terrorism; exchanging best practices on mass transit and rail security; increasing exchanges between Coast Guards and Navy on maritime security; exchanging experience and expertise on port and border security; enhancing liaison and training between specialist counterterrorism units, including National Security Guard and their US counterparts. 

Pillai described the MoU as an evidence of successful cooperation between India and US in counterterrorism and as being based upon the solid foundation of mutual benefit.

Terming the pact as symbolic of the “indispensable partnership” against terrorism, Roemer said both the countries will work closely in matters like intelligence sharing and probe into bomb blasts. “In the coming days and months, there will be even closer information sharing and collaborative efforts on issues ranging from bomb blast probe and major events’ security to mega-city policing, cyber and border security,” he added.