VOI World/ Desk
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to take a united and uncompromising approach against terrorism, while warning that the conflict in West Asia is affecting global energy security, maritime trade and supply chains.
Addressing the 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Modi said the grouping must dismantle the entire ecosystem of terrorism, including its financing, recruitment, radicalisation and safe havens. He stressed that there could be no “double standards” in the fight against terrorism and said countries that use terrorism as an instrument of policy or provide shelter to terrorists must receive a strong message.
Without naming Pakistan, Modi’s remarks came as India continues to raise concerns over cross-border terrorism. He said terrorism could not be treated as a strategic asset by any country.
The SCO’s Bishkek Declaration also described double standards in counter-terrorism as unacceptable and called for stronger international cooperation against terrorism, including action against the cross-border movement of terrorists.
Modi also focused on the escalating crisis in West Asia, saying conflicts in one region no longer remain confined there. He warned that their consequences were being felt globally through disruptions to energy security, maritime trade and supply chains, with countries of the Global South bearing a particularly heavy burden.
Reiterating India’s position, Modi said tensions and wars could not be resolved on the battlefield and that dialogue and diplomacy remained the only sustainable path to peace. The SCO declaration similarly called for political and diplomatic efforts to address the West Asia crisis.
The Bishkek Declaration also expressed concern over developments in and around Iran, condemned military strikes on Iranian territory and stressed respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and international law. India joined other SCO members in backing the declaration, although it did not specifically name the United States or Israel.
Modi further underlined the importance of peace and stability in Afghanistan, saying India would continue its humanitarian and development assistance. He linked regional stability with greater economic cooperation, connectivity and shared prosperity.
