Rajnath Singh Urges SCO Members to Dismantle Terrorism Ecosystem, Strengthen Regional Cooperation
Addressing the 25th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Dushanbe, Singh described terrorism as one of the gravest threats to peace and development, saying it claimed innocent lives, disrupted investment and commerce, radicalised societies and deprived young people of opportunities.
“There can be no justification for terrorism, no double standards in addressing it, and no place for those who finance, support, or provide safe havens to terrorists,” he said.
Recalling the SCO Summit in Bishkek in August-September 2026, Singh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had emphasised the need for concrete action on security, connectivity and opportunities.
He stressed that economic engagement among member states should be inclusive and mutually beneficial.
India believed the SCO should adhere to the principles of sovereign equality, consensus and mutual respect, the Defence Minister said, adding that new institutional mechanisms should address clearly identified needs, avoid duplication and deliver practical benefits.
Highlighting the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, supply-chain vulnerabilities, energy and food security concerns, and emerging technological divides, Singh called for stronger supply chains, greater trade and investment, and wider use of technology to drive development.
He reaffirmed India’s support for the Action Plan for the Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation Programme for 2026-2030.
Singh welcomed the decisions taken at the Bishkek summit to establish the Universal Centre in Tashkent and the Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe as permanent SCO bodies, stressing that their effectiveness would depend on efficient coordination and timely implementation.
On regional connectivity, he highlighted the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chabahar Port as important initiatives to connect Central Asia with wider markets.
He said connectivity projects must be based on consultation and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.
He also called for simplified customs procedures, digital documentation, improved logistics and interoperable digital solutions to reduce the cost of doing business across the region.
Referring to India’s development initiatives, Singh highlighted Digital Public Infrastructure, which has improved public service delivery and financial inclusion, as well as the country’s start-up ecosystem and focus on women-led development.
He also cited the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission LiFE and the Global Biofuel Alliance as initiatives supporting clean energy, climate resilience and sustainable development.
Singh urged SCO members to build on the organisation’s 25-year foundation and pursue a forward-looking roadmap focused on consensus-driven cooperation and tangible outcomes.
He invited member states to participate in the first SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum, scheduled to be hosted by India later this year.
The meeting reviewed economic and trade cooperation among SCO member states and discussed ways to strengthen collaboration in transport, finance, the digital economy and social development.
The heads of delegation adopted a joint communiqué, the SCO budget for 2027, relevant financial and administrative decisions, and the PMTEC Action Plan for 2026-2030.
India has been a full member of the SCO since 2017 and continues to participate in its various mechanisms.
TNT KM
