SCO Meeting: Jaishankar Calls for Unified Action Against Terrorism, Cites Pahalgam Incident

At the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting in Tianjin, Dr. S. Jaishankar addressed the critical need to combat terrorism, citing the recent terrorist incident in Pahalgam, India. He noted that the UN Security Council had condemned the attack. Jaishankar identified terrorism, separatism, and extremism as intertwined menaces, and mentioned the Pahalgam attack, which sought to damage Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism economy while creating religious discord. He affirmed India’s commitment to hold those responsible accountable. He urged the SCO to remain true to its objectives by taking a strong stand on the issue. Jaishankar highlighted the need for SCO member states to work together to stabilize the global order. He emphasized the increase in conflicts, competition, and economic instability. He discussed India’s initiatives in areas like startup innovation, traditional medicine, and digital public infrastructure. He suggested addressing the lack of assured transit within the SCO region and promoting the INSTC. Jaishankar also stressed the necessity for the international community, particularly SCO members, to provide development aid to Afghanistan. He noted the world’s transition towards greater multi-polarity and the role of groupings like the SCO in shaping global affairs. He held meetings with counterparts including Sergey Lavrov of Russia and Seyed Abbas Araghchi of Iran on the sidelines of the meeting.