Neighbours should be sensitive to mutual security concerns: Sinha

‘‘Encouraging non-state actors, terrorists and other elements by providing sanctuary and support is not only violative of UN Security Council Resolution 1373 but can also boomerang on countries who provide such support,” he said, referring to Bhutan’s offensive against ULFA.

He said there were several examples in ‘‘our immediate vicinity and it would be wise for everyone to learn from these developments. Inspiration should be drawn from the courage and foresight with which Bhutan has moved against elements within its borders which were threatening its own sovereignty as well as the security of India’’.

Brushing aside allegations that India had adopted a ‘‘big brother approach’’, the External Affairs Minister said India should at all times be prepared ‘‘to pilot the building of a united and prosperous South Asia. Self-confidence should be the hallmark of our approach to the sub-continent’’.