Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a firm message against terrorism during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, stressing that terrorism should never be treated as a strategic or political tool. His remarks came in the presence of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other leaders attending the regional summit.
Modi called for a united international approach to terrorism and warned against applying different standards when dealing with extremist violence. He emphasised that countries must work together to prevent terrorism, its financing and the networks that support it.
The Prime Minister’s comments come at a time when security concerns remain a major issue across South Asia and Central Asia. India has consistently argued at international forums that terrorism requires a collective response and that countries must avoid selective approaches based on political considerations.
The SCO summit also provides India with an important platform to discuss energy security, regional connectivity, trade and cooperation with Central Asian nations. Geopolitical tensions and uncertainty surrounding energy supplies have increased the importance of stronger regional partnerships.
Modi’s participation in the summit is also significant for India’s relations with Russia and China. A widely noticed moment occurred when Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping briefly held hands during the official family photograph. The unusual visual attracted international attention.
India is expected to continue pushing for greater cooperation on economic connectivity, security and counter-terrorism during the summit. The government has also highlighted India’s digital infrastructure and its potential role in expanding regional economic cooperation.
The SCO meeting is therefore being closely watched for signs of how major Asian powers will manage their relationships amid changing global political and economic conditions.
