The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi address the heads of state, where he indirectly criticized Pakistan’s role in terrorism and voiced disapproval of protectionist, unilateral, and hegemonic tendencies, a clear reference to the United States. PM Modi reiterated India’s unwavering stance against cross-border terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
PM Modi began his address by acknowledging the honor of speaking at the Tianjin summit, a city representing progress and connectivity. He extended greetings on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians to all leaders and representatives. He also thanked President Xi for hosting the summit and the generous hospitality. The SCO has expanded to ten full members from its initial six, encompassing nearly half the world’s population and a considerable portion of the global economy. India is dedicated to the organization’s role in fostering regional stability, security, and prosperity.
He highlighted the key role SCO has played in bolstering cooperation and mutual ties in the Asian region during the past 24 years. India has consistently played a constructive role as an active member, guided by three pillars: Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity.
Without naming Pakistan, the Prime Minister addressed the challenges posed by terrorism, separatism, and extremism. He emphasized that terrorism poses a shared challenge for all of humanity. No nation or society can consider itself immune to it, and India has therefore stressed solidarity in fighting it, with the SCO contributing significantly. This year, India has led the Joint Information Operations, taking the lead in countering terrorist organizations. He expressed appreciation for the support received, particularly concerning efforts against terror financing.
Modi noted that India has endured the scourge of terrorism for the last four decades, leading to considerable loss of life and many orphans. He referred to the recent, horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam and thanked the friendly countries that supported India during that difficult time. The attack was an open challenge to every nation and individual who believes in humanity. It is imperative to question whether open support for terrorism by some countries can be accepted, and to unequivocally state that there can be no double standards on terrorism.