Isolate nations that support terror, offer safe havens: Modi

ASTANA (KAZAKHSTAN): In an indirect message to China and Pakistan at the SCO Summit, PM Narendra Modi on Thursday noted that the group had agreed “not to take any measures contrary to the principles of state sovereignty and territorial integrity”, and asked the international community to “isolate and expose those countries that harbour terrorists, provide safe havens and condone terrorism”.

“The SCO is a principle-based organisation, whose consensus drives the approach of its member states. At this time, it is particularly noteworthy that we are reiterating mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, equality, mutual benefit, non-interference in internal affairs, non-use of force or threat of use of force as a basis for our foreign policies. We have also agreed not to take any measures contrary to the principles of state sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Modi said in his remarks at the SCO Summit here organised under the Kazakh presidency.

PM Modi’s remarks were delivered by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on his behalf at the summit. ET had reported that Kazakhstan had requested Modi's presence in the summit in some format.

The SCO summit under the Kazakh presidency as reported by the ET adopted countering terrorism, separatism and extremism for 2025-2027 as its key resolution.

In his remarks, the PM asserted on giving priority to combating terrorism, one of the original goals of the SCO.

“Many of us have had our experiences, often originating beyond our borders. Let us be clear that if left unchecked, it can become a major threat to regional and global peace. Terrorism in any form or manifestation cannot be justified or condoned. International community must isolate and expose those countries that harbour terrorists, provide safe havens and condone terrorism. Cross-border terrorism requires a decisive response and terrorism financing and recruitment must be resolutely countered. We should also take proactive steps to prevent the spread of radicalisation among our youth. The joint statement issued during India’s presidency last year on this subject underlines our shared commitment,” Modi said in a clear reference to Pakistan’s sponsorship of cross-border terror.

Later in his speech at the SCO summit outreach session also delivered through Jaishankar, the PM suggested that the SCO should denounce double standards on terrorism. He further emphasised on Chabahar Port being the connectivity corridor for Central Asia.

The PM also chided the China-led BRI that violates India’s sovereignty. “Economic development requires robust connectivity. That can also pave the way for cooperation and trust between our societies. Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity is essential for connectivity and infrastructure projects. So too are non-discriminatory trade rights and transit regimes. The SCO needs to deliberate seriously on these aspects.”

It may be pointed out that India has never been part of the SCO joint declaration references on BRI.

The PM also referred to challenges from climate change and focused on use of Artificial Intelligence in context of SCO roadmap for AI cooperation. India also welcomed Belarus as the 10th member of the SCO.

“India shares deep civilisational ties with the people of this region. Recognising the centrality of Central Asia to SCO, we have prioritised their interests and aspirations. It is reflected in greater exchanges, projects and activities with them.”

China will host the next SCO summit.