Irregular migrants should not be used as terrorists : India

New York, Sep 15 (UNI) India today called for coordinated and concerted international action against human trafficking and use of irregular migrants as an instrument of cross-border terrorism.

Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed said in an address at the 'High-Level Dialogue on International Migration and Development' at the UN General Assembly that while international migration brought benefits to both developed and developing countries, there was also the need to know the ''problematic facet of international migration.

''There are serious security implications, including the use of irregular migrants as an instrument for cross-border terrorism and for creating social tensions in the host country. This needs to be tackled with aa firm resolve,'' he said.

He said it was no longer the concern only of domestic law enforcement but a matter of global priority requiring ''coordinated and concerted'' action.

A similar firm resolve is required to to tackle the scourge of people's smuggling and trafficking, especially of women and children, the Minister said.

Highlighting the mutual benefits of international migration to both developed and developing countries, Mr Ahamed said cooperative international efforts should result in comprehensive, mutually-beneficial solutions that are based on the best practices dealing with international migration.

''We recognise that international migration solutions and approaches relevant to a particular country or region may not be appropriate for others. Our efforts should focus on promoting teamwork amongst nations, to maximise the benefits of international migration while reducing its negative effects. We also believe that regular interaction among countries, including at the UN, could result in a win-win situation for all,'' he added.

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