SCO Bishkek Declaration Rejects Double Standards in Counter-Terrorism
SCO leaders at the Bishkek summit adopt declaration rejecting double standards in counter-terrorism and condemning cross-border terrorist movement.
Leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) have adopted the Bishkek Declaration, which firmly rejects the use of double standards in the fight against terrorism. The declaration, issued at the conclusion of the SCO summit in the Kyrgyz capital, calls on the international community to combat terrorism in all its forms, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, with the United Nations playing a central role.
The declaration stresses that attempts to exploit terrorist, separatist, and extremist groups for selfish purposes are inadmissible. It also condemns efforts to discredit government bodies and structures of SCO member states, calling such actions contrary to international law and the principles of sovereign equality and non-interference in internal affairs.
On the situation in the Middle East, the declaration expresses deep concern over developments around Iran, condemning military strikes on Iranian territory that have caused civilian casualties and economic damage. It offers condolences for the death of Supreme Leader Seyyed Ali Khamenei and advocates a political and diplomatic resolution to the conflict, while reaffirming support for Iran's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The declaration also underscores that the SCO is not a military-political bloc and is not directed against other states or international organisations. It highlights the ongoing geopolitical changes, including conflicts, energy and food security challenges, and climate change, which have impacted economies worldwide.
Reaffirming commitment to the UN Charter, the declaration calls for a representative, democratic, and equitable multipolar world order. It opposes double standards in human rights and interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states. The declaration also welcomes initiatives such as the 'One Earth, One Family, One Future' vision and India's proposals for youth cooperation and scientific innovation.
The SCO has amended its charter to include English as an official and working language. The presidency of the SCO will pass to Pakistan, with the next summit scheduled for 2027.