The BRICS TimesThe Indian Prime Minister has emphasized the need for a unified stance within the SCO to combat terrorism.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged member nations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to firmly reject any form of “double standards” when it comes to dealing with terrorism.
Addressing the 25th Council of SCO Heads of State in Tianjin on Monday, Modi stressed that global security demands “unity” in confronting terrorism. Referring to the April terrorist strike in Pahalgam, located in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, Modi noted that “many friendly countries” extended their solidarity with India during the tragic event.
“We must clearly and unanimously declare that double standards on terrorism are unacceptable,” Modi declared, adding, “We must collectively oppose terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. This is our duty to humanity.”
Without naming Pakistan directly, Modi appeared to allude to the SCO member, which India has accused of orchestrating the April attack. Raising a pointed concern, he questioned, “It raises a serious question – should a country openly supporting terrorism be acceptable to any of us.”
Following Modi’s remarks, SCO members reaffirmed their support for India and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims as well as the injured. In a joint declaration issued on Monday, the organization stated, “The Member States strongly condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, stress that double standards in the fight against terrorism are unacceptable, and call on the international community to combat terrorism, including cross-border movement of terrorists.”
Meanwhile, in his opening address on Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping called upon SCO nations to “seek common ground while putting aside differences” and to focus on “mutual benefit and win-win results” as the grouping works to define its future direction.
Touching on the issue of regional connectivity, Modi underlined that member states must respect territorial sovereignty. India has long opposed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a critical component of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative, since the route cuts through territory under Islamabad’s control but claimed by New Delhi.
At the same time, Modi reiterated that improved connectivity forms the backbone of development and mutual trust. He highlighted India’s ongoing efforts with projects such as the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor, stressing, “This will help us improve connectivity with Afghanistan and Central Asia.”
-From inputs of RT India
