Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping used the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek to emphasise the importance of stronger cooperation against terrorism, extremism and other cross-border security threats.
The summit brought together leaders from several countries at a time when international security concerns remain high. Terrorism, organised crime, extremism and regional stability were among the major issues discussed during the meeting.
Prime Minister Modi called for a firm and consistent international approach toward terrorism. India has repeatedly argued that countries should not apply different standards when dealing with terrorism and that organisations supporting terrorist activities must face international pressure.
The Indian position also focused on the wider ecosystem surrounding terrorism, including financing, recruitment, radicalisation and safe havens. New Delhi has been seeking greater international cooperation on these issues.
China’s President Xi Jinping also stressed the importance of security cooperation among SCO members. He highlighted challenges including terrorism, separatism, extremism, organised crime and drug trafficking.
The summit also produced several initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation between member countries. India highlighted measures related to security and efforts to address transnational threats.
A notable moment during the summit came when Modi, Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin were seen together during the official family photograph. The leaders shared a brief handshake moment that attracted considerable attention.
The discussions took place against a complicated international backdrop, with conflicts, economic uncertainty and regional security concerns affecting relations between major powers.
For India, the summit provided an opportunity to reinforce its position that terrorism remains one of the most serious threats to international peace. It also allowed New Delhi to engage with major regional powers on security and economic cooperation.
The SCO is expected to remain an important platform for discussions involving Eurasian security, trade and diplomatic cooperation. The outcomes of the Bishkek meeting could influence regional conversations in the months ahead.
