SCO Summit: Indian Foreign Minister Calls for Unified Approach to Combat Terrorism

Islamabad-(Mudassar Iqbal):  Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar congratulated Pakistan on assuming the presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and stressed the significance of addressing cross-border terrorism and fostering regional cooperation for stability and growth. Speaking at the SCO Heads of State Summit, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s leadership during its term and called for collective efforts to tackle global challenges.

Jaishankar acknowledged the complex global issues facing the world, including two major conflicts with significant repercussions. He emphasized that the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather conditions, supply chain disruptions, and financial instability have severely affected the progress of developing countries.

The Indian foreign minister pointed out the rising debt burdens that many nations are struggling with, which have hindered the achievement of sustainable development goals. He advocated for honest dialogue and self-assessment, urging nations to reflect on their failures in fostering trust, friendship, and good neighborly relations.

Jaishankar noted that the world is moving toward a multipolar order, with globalization and balance becoming inevitable. He highlighted that this shift presents opportunities in trade, investment, and connectivity, which the region can capitalize on if approached effectively. He stressed that regional cooperation must be based on mutual respect, sovereignty, and equitable partnerships rather than unilateral agendas.

He also underscored that peace and stability are essential for regional development, which requires a firm stance against terrorism, extremism, and separatism. “Cross-border terrorism, extremism, and separatism must be tackled if we are to advance trade and foster people-to-people ties,” Jaishankar cautioned, calling for a united effort to address these threats and unlock the region’s full potential.

The foreign minister highlighted the importance of industrial cooperation to enhance competitiveness and create job opportunities, particularly by fostering collaboration among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). He emphasized the potential for joint initiatives to expand resources, attract investment, and increase networking within the business community.

He identified logistics, energy, environmental protection, and climate change as key areas for collaboration. He also emphasized that improving access to affordable healthcare, particularly through the provision of essential medicines, would enhance health outcomes for both communicable and non-communicable diseases. Moreover, collective action in health, food, and energy security would benefit all.

Jaishankar highlighted India’s contributions to global and regional initiatives within the SCO, including the promotion of renewable energy through the International Solar Alliance, the Mission LiFE’s advocacy for sustainable lifestyles, and the Global Biofuel Alliance’s efforts to support energy transitions. He also mentioned India’s role in biodiversity conservation through the International Big Cat Alliance and its achievements in digital infrastructure and women-led development.

On the issue of global governance, Jaishankar reiterated the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), arguing that the credibility and effectiveness of the UN hinge on equitable representation for developing countries. He referred to the July 2024 Astana agreement, which recognized that UNSC reforms are crucial for maintaining the UN’s legitimacy. Jaishankar urged the SCO to take a leading role in advocating for these reforms, as emphasized by global leaders at the recent UN General Assembly.

In conclusion, Jaishankar underscored the SCO’s potential to drive global change, expressing that the world has high expectations from the organization. He called on member states to embrace their responsibilities, explore new avenues of cooperation, and deliver impactful outcomes.

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