PM Modi at SCO Summit: Push for Zero Tolerance on Terrorism, Dialogue Over Conflict
PM Modi addressed the SCO summit, urging collective action against terrorism, support for Afghanistan, and stronger regional connectivity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan, laying out a broad agenda for regional cooperation. His remarks came against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts impacting global energy and supply chains.
Security and Counter-Terrorism
The Prime Minister called for strengthening the SCO's three core pillars: security, connectivity, and opportunity. He stressed the need to move beyond vision statements and focus on measurable outcomes.
On terrorism, Modi urged member states to dismantle the entire ecosystem that supports it, including financing, recruitment, radicalisation, and safe havens. He firmly rejected any double standards in the fight against terrorism, stating that the region must speak with one voice on the issue.
He also issued a strong call against state-supported terrorism, asserting that countries using terrorism as an instrument of state policy or sheltering terrorists must be sent a clear message that terrorism cannot be a strategic asset for anyone.
Regional Stability and Afghanistan
Modi linked the shared aspiration for a peaceful and secure Eurasia to peace and stability in Afghanistan. He reiterated India's commitment to contributing to the development and humanitarian needs of the Afghan people.
Dialogue Over Conflict
Addressing regional tensions, the Prime Minister emphasised that conflicts should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, not on the battlefield. He noted that unresolved conflicts can disrupt energy security, maritime trade, and global supply chains.
Connectivity and Trade
Modi advocated for building reliable and inclusive connectivity that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, in line with the SCO Charter. He also highlighted the need to modernise trade and logistics by simplifying customs procedures, expanding digital documentation, and improving logistics networks.
People-Centric Cooperation
The Prime Minister stressed that SCO cooperation should create tangible opportunities for people, with a focus on youth, entrepreneurs, farmers, and citizens. He called for expanding youth, scientific, and cultural exchanges, mentioning initiatives like the SCO Start-up Forum and the proposed SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum, whose first session is slated for India.