PM Modi Advocates for Unity Against Terrorism at SCO Summit

Modi's Address at the SCO Summit

Bishkek, Sept 1: In light of ongoing conflicts and geopolitical strife, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged member nations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to eliminate double standards regarding terrorism and to seek resolutions through dialogue and diplomacy.

During his speech at the 26th Council of Heads of State meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Modi emphasized that terrorism must be addressed comprehensively, including its funding, recruitment, radicalization, and safe havens.

“We must unite in our stance that double standards on terrorism are unacceptable,” Modi asserted.

He reiterated India's belief that conflicts should be resolved through conversation rather than combat, stating, “There is no solution on the battlefield; all wars and conflicts must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.”

Modi outlined three key components of India's vision for the SCO: Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity, describing the organization as a meeting point for diverse civilizations, cultures, and ideas.

Looking forward, he encouraged SCO members to prioritize people-to-people connections in their collaborative efforts over the next 25 years.

He also highlighted India's initiatives within the SCO, such as the Start-up Forum, Young Authors' Conclave, and Young Scientists' Forum.

“Last year, India proposed the SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum, and I am pleased to announce that its inaugural session will take place in India this year,” Modi noted.

Earlier, Modi participated in a group photo with fellow leaders and engaged in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two leaders were seen shaking hands and conversing as they made their way to the event venue after the photo session. Modi and Xi last met during the SCO Summit in Tianjin in August 2025.

Modi's attendance at the summit aligns with India's ongoing efforts to enhance relations with Central Asia and strengthen cooperation within the SCO framework.

On the previous day, Modi held discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the summit, where they exchanged views on regional and global matters of shared concern, including the conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region.

The Ministry of External Affairs noted that these conflicts have impacted maritime trade and the safety of Indian seafarers.

During their meeting, the two leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including political, economic, defense, energy, space, mobility, and cultural exchanges, and welcomed the outcomes of the 27th India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic and Cultural Matters, which took place in Moscow on August 24.

Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to supporting peace initiatives in Ukraine, stating, “Every day spent in war pushes humanity backwards, while every step taken towards peace fills humanity with a new hope and enthusiasm. We must transition from an endless war to an end to the war.”

Peace, he emphasized, is crucial for the well-being of humanity.

The SCO consists of ten member states: Belarus, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.