The BRICS TimesPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of State Council Summit, delivering a strong message against terrorism and stressing the importance of sovereignty, trust-based connectivity, and deeper cultural dialogue among member nations.
India’s Firm Stand Against Terrorism
Condemnation of the Pahalgam Terror Attack
PM Modi reiterated India’s unwavering position on terrorism, calling it one of the biggest threats to global peace, prosperity, and stability. Referring to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians, including tourists, were killed, he described it as not just an attack on India but also an assault on humanity.
“The Pahalgam terror attack was an attack on India’s soul and a challenge to humanity itself. Should any country openly supporting terrorism be acceptable to us?” Modi asked.
Call for Collective Global Action
He thanked partner nations for standing with India during the crisis, while criticising those that “openly support terrorism.” Modi strongly opposed double standards on terrorism, stressing that India has long led the global fight against outfits like Al-Qaeda and its affiliates and continues to reject any form of terror-financing.
Connectivity and Sovereignty in the SCO
Sovereignty Must Be Respected
Highlighting the SCO Charter, Modi underlined that connectivity projects must be based on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“Connectivity should always respect sovereignty and territorial integrity—this is a fundamental principle of the SCO Charter. Connectivity that bypasses sovereignty loses both trust and meaning,” he said.
India’s Role in Regional Connectivity
He emphasised that for India, connectivity is more than trade—it is about trust, stability, and development. Modi highlighted India’s ongoing projects such as the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), which aim to improve links with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
India’s SCO Presidency in 2023
During India’s presidency of the SCO in 2023, Modi said the country infused new ideas and energy into the organisation. The focus was on youth empowerment, digital inclusion, startup growth, and promotion of Buddhist heritage.
He stressed that India’s approach was to make SCO relevant beyond governments, ensuring it benefits ordinary citizens across member countries.
Proposal for a Civilisation Dialogue Forum
To strengthen cultural and civilisational bonds, Modi proposed setting up a Civilisation Dialogue Forum within the SCO.
Enhancing People-to-People Ties
The Prime Minister explained that the forum would provide a global platform for member nations to share their civilisations, traditions, literature, and cultural heritage, thereby enhancing people-to-people ties.
“To enhance people-to-people ties in the SCO, I propose the formation of a Civilisation Dialogue Forum. It will provide a global stage to share our ancient civilisation, culture, traditions, and literature,” Modi said.
Reform, Perform, and Transform: India’s Development Mantra
In his closing remarks, PM Modi reiterated India’s philosophy of “Reform, Perform, and Transform.” He said India has always sought to turn challenges into opportunities, whether during the Covid-19 pandemic or amidst global instability.
“India is committed to reforms and invites all SCO nations to be part of its development story. The SCO too must evolve with time to stay relevant and effective,” he added.
VIDEO | Tianjin, China: PM Narendra Modi (@narendramodi), addressing the plenary session of the 25th SCO Heads of State Council Summit, says,
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 1, 2025
"Security, peace, and stability are the foundation of any country's progress. But terrorism remains a challenge for the entire humanity,… pic.twitter.com/H15RQUEwpg
Key Highlights of PM Modi’s SCO Speech
Call for SCO to evolve with time under India’s vision of Reform, Perform, and Transform.
Strong condemnation of terrorism and nations supporting it.
Pahalgam terror attack described as a challenge to humanity.
No acceptance of double standards on terrorism.
Connectivity projects must respect sovereignty and territorial integrity.
India’s focus on Chabahar and INSTC for Afghanistan and Central Asia.
2023 SCO presidency focused on youth, digital growth, startups, and Buddhist heritage.
Proposal for a Civilisation Dialogue Forum to strengthen cultural exchange.
