Xi & Shehbaz listening, PM Modi at SCO meet: Can’t have double standards on terrorism

Modi also took on Beijing and Islamabad on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), saying while executing connectivity projects, it is essential to “respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity” of member countries of the SCO.

He told leaders of the SCO grouping – President Xi, Prime Minister Sharif and President Vladimir Putin were among those who attended the virtual summit – that “terrorism has become a major threat to regional and global peace. Dealing with this challenge requires decisive action. Regardless of its form or manifestation, we must unite in our fight against terrorism.”

“Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of their policies, provide shelter to terrorists. SCO should not hesitate to criticise such nations. There should be no place for double standards on such serious matters,” he said.

“We need to enhance mutual cooperation in dealing with terror financing as well. The RATS (regional anti-terrorist structure) mechanism of SCO has played a significant role in this regard. We should also take proactive steps to prevent the spread of radicalisation among our youth. The joint statement issued today on the subject of radicalisation symbolises our shared commitment,” he said.

On connectivity projects, Modi said, “Strong connectivity is crucial for the progress of any region. Better connectivity not only enhances mutual trade but also fosters mutual trust.”

“However, in these efforts, it is essential to uphold the basic principles of the SCO charter, particularly respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Member States,” he said.

The Prime Minister also referred to the Russia-Ukraine war, without mentioning it explicitly, and its impact on the world. “The present times mark a crucial phase in global affairs. In a world surrounded by conflicts, tensions and pandemics, food, fuel, and fertiliser crises are a significant challenge for all nations.”

“We should collectively ponder whether we are capable, as an organisation, of fulfilling the aspirations and expectations of our people. Are we equipped to tackle modern-day challenges? Is SCO evolving into an organisation that is fully prepared for the future?” he said.

Modi also raised the situation in Afghanistan. “The situation in Afghanistan has directly impacted the security of all of us. India’s concerns and expectations regarding Afghanistan are similar to those of most SCO countries. We must come together to strive for the well-being of the people of Afghanistan. Humanitarian assistance to Afghan citizens, the formation of an inclusive government, the fight against terrorism and drug trafficking, and ensuring the rights of women, children and minorities are our shared priorities.”

“Between the people of India and Afghanistan, there have been centuries-old friendly relations. In the past two decades, we have contributed to the economic and social development of Afghanistan. Even after the events of 2021, we continued to provide humanitarian assistance. It is important that Afghanistan’s territory is not used to spread instability in neighbouring countries or to encourage extremist ideologies,” he said.

During the SCO summit, Iran was inducted as a new member and President Ebrahim Raisi attended the virtual summit. Modi said they can work towards maximising the utilisation of the Chabahar port. “The International North-South Transport Corridor can serve as a secure and efficient route for landlocked countries in Central Asia to access the Indian Ocean. We should strive to realise its full potential,” he said.

An in-person summit was scheduled in New Delhi, but the plan was changed early June. The last in-person SCO summit took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan in September 2022.

The theme of India’s SCO presidency, SECURE, was derived from the acronym given by Modi at the 2018 SCO summit in Qingdao.

As chairperson of the SCO, he said India has made continuous efforts to take multi-dimensional cooperation to new heights. “We have based all these efforts on two fundamental principles. Firstly, ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, which means the whole world is one family. This principle has been an integral part of our social behaviour since ancient times. It continues to serve as a source of inspiration and energy for us in modern times. The second principle is SECURE… which stands for S: Security, E: Economic development, C: Connectivity, U: Unity, R: Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity and E: Environmental protection. It reflects the theme of our chairmanship and the vision of our SCO,” he said.

During its presidency, he said India has created five new pillars and focus areas of cooperation in SCO – startups and innovation, traditional medicine, digital inclusion, youth empowerment and shared Buddhist heritage.