PM Modi Calls for Unified Action Against Terrorism at SCO Summit

NEW DELHI: In a virtual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the importance of unified action against terrorism, calling for decisive measures to combat the global threat. With leaders from SCO member countries, including Pakistan, China, and Russia in attendance, PM Modi highlighted the necessity for the bloc to criticize nations that support cross-border terrorism as part of their state policies. He stressed that terrorism has become a significant menace to regional and global peace, urging expanded mutual cooperation within the SCO to address this challenge effectively.

PM Modi emphasized that the fight against terrorism should be carried out collectively, regardless of its form or manifestation, urging member states to avoid double standards in combating terrorism. The virtual summit, chaired by PM Modi as part of India's presidency, also touched upon various global challenges. He highlighted the food, fuel, and fertilizer crisis, emphasizing the need for united efforts to address these issues amidst controversies, tensions, and epidemics. Additionally, PM Modi discussed India's concerns and expectations regarding the situation in Afghanistan, which align with those of other SCO countries.

"Terrorism has become a threat to regional and global peace," PM Modi said calling for expanding mutual cooperation to deal with the menace by the grouping."We have to fight together against terrorism that may be in any form and any manifestation," PM Modi said.

The Indian Prime Minister acknowledged the SCO's significance as a crucial platform for promoting peace, prosperity, and development in Eurasia. He emphasized on India's longstanding cultural and people-to-people ties with the region, showcasing shared heritage. As the chair of SCO, India has consistently strived to enhance multifaceted cooperation and establish five pillars of collaboration within the organization, including startup and innovation, traditional medicine, youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and shared Buddhist heritage. PM Modi expressed support for the proposal to reform and modernize the SCO, welcoming Iran as a new member and congratulating Belarus on signing the Memorandum of Obligation for SCO membership.

Throughout India's association with the SCO since becoming an observer country in 2005 and a full member state in 2017, the country has demonstrated a keen interest in deepening security-related cooperation with the organization and its Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS), which focuses on security and defense matters. The SCO, founded in 2001 at a summit in Shanghai, includes Russia, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan as its founding members. India and Pakistan joined the SCO as full members in 2017.

PM Modi's address at the SCO summit centered on the urgent need for united action against terrorism and the condemnation of countries supporting cross-border terrorism as part of their state policies. He highlighted the significance of the SCO in addressing global challenges, fostering cooperation, and strengthening ties in Eurasia.

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