PM Narendra Modi Calls for Global Action Against Terrorism at SCO Summit in Kazakhstan

Astana, Kazakhstan – Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that terrorism in any form cannot be justified and urged the international community to isolate and expose countries that support terrorism. These remarks were delivered by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Astana.

Key Points from PM Modi’s Speech

Combating Terrorism

PM Modi highlighted the importance of combating terrorism, calling it one of the original goals of the SCO. He stressed that terrorism, if left unchecked, can threaten regional and global peace. He called for a decisive response to cross-border terrorism and emphasized the need to counter terrorism financing and recruitment.

Climate Change

PM Modi also addressed climate change, stating that efforts are being made to reduce emissions, transition to alternate fuels, adopt electric vehicles, and build climate-resilient infrastructure. He mentioned that during India’s SCO presidency, a Joint Statement on emerging fuels and a Concept Paper on de-carbonization in the transportation sector were approved.

Global Challenges

The Prime Minister noted that the SCO Summit was being held amidst the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts, and rising global tensions. He emphasized the need for finding common ground to mitigate these challenges.

India’s Role in SCO

PM Modi recalled that India became a member of the SCO in 2017 under Kazakhstan’s Presidency and has since hosted key meetings. He congratulated Iran and Belarus on their new roles within the SCO and offered condolences for the demise of former Iran President Ebrahim Raisi.

About the SCO

The SCO was founded in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. It now includes India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.