SCO Summit: PM Modi calls for united action against terrorism

New Delhi, Sep 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), held in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1.

The two-day summit saw wide-ranging discussions on the SCO Development Strategy, global governance reforms, counter-terrorism, regional peace and security, economic and financial cooperation, and sustainable development.

In his address, the Prime Minister outlined India’s approach to strengthening cooperation under the SCO framework, stressing three key pillars: Security, Connectivity and Opportunity. He underlined that peace, security and stability are essential for progress and prosperity, urging member states to take firm and decisive measures against terrorism in all its forms. Calling for coordinated efforts to curb terror financing and radicalisation, he thanked SCO partners for their solidarity following the recent Pahalgam terror attack. “There should be no double standards in dealing with terrorism,” he said, adding that countries that perpetrate and support cross-border terrorism must be held accountable.

On connectivity, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s strong support for initiatives such as the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor. He also highlighted opportunities for collaboration in start-ups, innovation, youth empowerment, and shared cultural heritage. To deepen civilizational linkages, he proposed the establishment of a Civilizational Dialogue Forum within the SCO.

Expressing India’s support for the group’s reform-oriented agenda, the Prime Minister welcomed the creation of centres to address organized crime, drug trafficking, and cyber security. He also emphasized the need for similar reforms in multilateral institutions, including the United Nations. Prime Minister Modi thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping for his hospitality and congratulated him on the successful organization of the summit. He also extended best wishes to Kyrgyzstan as it assumes the next Presidency of the SCO. The summit concluded with the adoption of the Tianjin Declaration by SCO member states.