In a veiled reference to Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at countries supporting cross-border terrorism during the virtual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The summit was attended by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
PM Modi emphasized the need for decisive action against terrorism and terror financing, stating that terrorism poses a threat to regional and global peace. He called for expanded mutual cooperation within the SCO to effectively tackle this menace.
During his address, PM Modi stressed the importance of unitedly fighting terrorism in all its forms, without any double standards. Although he didn’t mention Pakistan directly, it was evident that he was referring to the neighboring country.
India has consistently criticized Pakistan for providing safe havens to terrorist groups and facilitating cross-border terrorism.
PM Modi also highlighted global challenges related to food, fuel, and fertilizer supplies. Furthermore, he expressed that India’s concerns and expectations regarding Afghanistan align with those of most SCO countries.
The virtual summit, held under India’s presidency, saw the participation of leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization, founded by Russia and China, aims to counter Western alliances from East Asia to the Indian Ocean.
The SCO comprises four Central Asian nations, namely Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, which have deep-rooted Russian influence due to their past as former Soviet republics. Pakistan joined the organization in 2017, and Iran is set to become a member as well. Belarus is also in line for membership.
Key Points:
- PM Modi calls for decisive action against countries supporting cross-border terrorism.
- He emphasizes the need for expanded mutual cooperation within the SCO to combat terrorism.
- India’s concerns and expectations regarding Afghanistan align with those of most SCO countries.
- The SCO summit witnesses the participation of leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran.
- Pakistan joined the SCO in 2017, and Iran is expected to join.
- Belarus is also in line for SCO membership.
| SCO Member Countries | Year of Joining |
|---|---|
| Kazakhstan | 2001 |
| Kyrgyzstan | 2001 |
| Tajikistan | 2001 |
| Uzbekistan | 2001 |
| Pakistan | 2017 |
| India | 2021 (as President) |
| Iran | 2023 |
| Belarus | Upcoming |
