Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a powerful address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, underscored the urgent need for the international community to isolate and expose countries that harbour terrorists.
Speaking on behalf of PM Modi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conveyed the Indian Prime Minister's firm stance against terrorism and the necessity for global cooperation to combat this menace.
The remarks were made during the SCO Summit held under Kazakhstan’s Presidency in Astana. PM Modi highlighted that terrorism in any form is inexcusable and called for collective action to address the threats posed by cross-border terrorism.
Emphasising the original goals of the SCO, Modi stressed the importance of mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. He asserted that terrorism, if left unchecked, could become a significant threat to regional and global peace.
PM Modi articulated that countries providing safe havens and support to terrorists must be exposed and isolated. He called for decisive actions to counter terrorism financing and recruitment and highlighted the importance of preventing radicalization among youth.
Modi referenced a Joint Statement issued during India’s previous SCO Presidency, which underlined the shared commitment of member states to combat terrorism.
Climate change was another key issue addressed by PM Modi. He noted that the SCO member states are working towards reducing emissions, transitioning to alternative fuels, adopting electric vehicles, and building climate-resilient infrastructure.
He mentioned the approval of a Joint Statement on emerging fuels and a Concept Paper on decarbonization in the transportation sector during India’s SCO presidency.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts, rising tensions, and increasing global hotspots. He pointed out that these events have strained international relations and global economic growth, exacerbating issues stemming from globalisation. Modi emphasised the need for the SCO to find common ground and mitigate the consequences of these developments.
Recalling India's membership in the SCO since 2017 under Kazakhstan’s Presidency, PM Modi expressed appreciation for the role the organisation plays in India’s foreign policy.
He noted that India has hosted significant SCO meetings, including the Council of Heads of Government Meeting in 2020 and the Council of Heads of State Meeting in 2023.
PM Modi congratulated Iran for participating in the SCO Summit as a member and extended condolences over the demise of former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and others in a helicopter crash. He also congratulated Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and welcomed Belarus as the new member of the SCO.
The SCO Summit, attended by leaders from member states including India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, aims to enhance economic and security cooperation among its members. Founded in 2001, the SCO continues to play a crucial role in addressing regional security and economic challenges.
The summit highlighted the importance of collective efforts in addressing terrorism, climate change, and global tensions, reaffirming the SCO’s commitment to fostering peace, security, and economic stability in the region.
PM Modi's call for action against terrorism and his emphasis on climate change underscore India's proactive approach in addressing global challenges through multilateral cooperation.
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