Context
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, called upon the SCO to dismantle the entire ecosystem of terrorism and send a strong message against countries that support terrorism as a state policy.
Key Points
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- India strongly condemned cross-border terrorism, with Pakistan taking over the SCO chair for 2026–27.
- PM Modi stressed that terrorism cannot be tackled merely by targeting individual terrorists; its financing, recruitment, ideological support and safe havens must also be dismantled.
- He called for peace and stability in Afghanistan and highlighted India’s continued humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people.
- India also supported an inclusive government in Afghanistan while expressing concern over the continuing conflict in the Persian Gulf region.
- The SCO Bishkek Declaration called for an inclusive government in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.
Why is it Important?
The statement reflects India’s approach of zero tolerance towards terrorism and its emphasis on addressing the broader ecosystem that sustains terrorism.
For India, the issue is particularly significant because of the continuing challenge of cross-border terrorism and the use of terrorist networks as instruments of state policy.
SCO & Counter-Terrorism
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation provides a platform for cooperation among member states on:
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- Counter-terrorism
- Counter-radicalisation
- Terror financing
- Organised crime
- Regional security
The Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) of the SCO is an important institutional mechanism for sharing information and coordinating counter-terrorism efforts.
Key Issue
The effectiveness of the SCO depends on whether member states can develop genuine consensus against terrorism, irrespective of political differences or the identity of the perpetrator.
Way Forward
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- Strengthen intelligence and information sharing.
- Disrupt terror financing and recruitment networks.
- Ensure accountability for states supporting terrorism.
- Strengthen cooperation through SCO-RATS.
- Promote stability and inclusive governance in Afghanistan.
Conclusion
India’s position at the SCO highlights the need for a collective and comprehensive approach to terrorism, targeting not only terrorists but the entire ecosystem that enables and sustains terrorism.
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