Global community must isolate, expose countries harbouring terrorists: Jaishankar at SCO summit
- In Reports
- 08:52 PM, Jul 04, 2024
- Myind Staff
On July 4th, during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Jaishankar delivered Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message calling on the international community to isolate and expose countries that shelter terrorists, provide safe havens, and tolerate terrorism. This statement was seen as a thinly veiled reference to China and its close ally Pakistan.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, representing India at the summit, highlighted that combating terrorism was one of the founding objectives of the SCO. He underscored the importance of addressing terrorism decisively, warning that if unchecked, terrorism could pose significant threats to regional and global peace. India's stance at the SCO summit reflects its ongoing concerns regarding cross-border terrorism originating from Pakistan and the broader global implications of terrorism if not effectively countered by international cooperation and action.
During the summit, attended by leaders such as Chinese President Xi Jinping, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, among others, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored that many nations have faced terrorism originating beyond their borders. He emphasised that if terrorism is not curbed, it poses a significant risk to both regional and global peace. Jaishankar firmly stated that terrorism, in any form, cannot be justified or accepted.
He emphasised that the international community should take action to isolate and publicly identify countries that shelter terrorists, offer safe havens, and tolerate terrorism. This statement appeared to target Pakistan and its close ally China, which has frequently delayed proposals at the United Nations to blacklist wanted terrorists based in Pakistan.
Jaishankar stressed the necessity of a strong and definitive response to cross-border terrorism. He highlighted the importance of countering terrorism financing and recruitment with determination. Additionally, he called for proactive measures to prevent the radicalisation of youth. He noted that the joint statement issued during India's Presidency last year on this matter underscores New Delhi's shared commitment to combating terrorism.
Jaishankar posted on X that he delivered India's statement at the SCO Council of Heads of States summit on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He expressed gratitude to the attending leaders for conveying their best wishes to Prime Minister Modi on his re-election for a third consecutive term.
Later, at the extended format meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State, Jaishankar conveyed Prime Minister Modi's remarks addressing the challenges faced, particularly highlighting terrorism as a significant concern. He emphasized that terrorism is frequently used by nations as a tool for destabilisation and underscored India's own experiences with cross-border terrorism. Jaishankar reiterated that terrorism, in any form or manifestation, cannot be justified or tolerated, and strongly condemned the harboring of terrorists.
Jaishankar emphasised the need for a resolute response to cross-border terrorism, stressing the importance of effectively countering terrorism financing and recruitment. He underscored the SCO's steadfast commitment to this cause, emphasising the necessity to uphold consistent standards without double standards. Furthermore, Jaishankar highlighted the SCO's collective determination to reform the current international order. He noted that such reforms should encompass the United Nations and its Security Council. Expressing hope for a strong consensus among SCO members in the near future, he emphasised the importance of developing a cohesive approach forward in this regard.
Jaishankar emphasised that the SCO members share a commitment to reforming the international order, particularly at the United Nations and its Security Council. He stressed the importance of creating multiple, reliable, and resilient supply chains in geo-economics, with India willing to collaborate on capacity building, especially with Global South nations. He noted the global focus on establishing new connectivity that respects sovereignty and non-discriminatory trade rights, citing progress at Iran's Chabahar port. Regarding Afghanistan, Jaishankar underscored India's deep historical ties and its sensitivity to Afghan needs and aspirations.
"Enhancing education, training, and capacity-building are fundamental aspects of India's international cooperation. We are dedicated to expanding these efforts, whether with our C5 partners, through our 'Neighbourhood First' policy, or within our extended neighbourhood," Jaishankar stated.
Jaishankar also posted on X that he represented India at the SCO Plus format Meeting in Astana, where he delivered Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement on the theme of 'Strengthening Multilateral Dialogue - Striving for Sustainable Peace and Development.'
In his earlier speech, Jaishankar emphasised that the SCO serves as a unique platform for uniting people and fostering collaboration, echoing the ancient principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam ('The World is One Family'). He characterised the SCO as an organisation guided by principles, where consensus among member states shapes their collective approach, noting its significant role in India's foreign policy. Jaishankar highlighted India's deep historical and cultural ties with the region and underscored India's commitment to prioritising the interests and aspirations of Central Asia within the SCO through increased exchanges, projects, and joint activities.
Jaishankar highlighted that India's approach to cooperation within the SCO has been centered around the people, noting initiatives such as the SCO Millet Food Festival, SCO Film Festival, SCO Surajkund Craft Mela, SCO Think-Tanks Conference, and the International Conference on Shared Buddhist Heritage organised during India's presidency. He affirmed India's commitment to supporting similar endeavours by other member states. He extended congratulations to Kazakhstan for successfully hosting the summit and conveyed India's best wishes to China for its upcoming presidency of the SCO. Additionally, Jaishankar expressed deepest condolences for the tragic passing of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and others in a helicopter crash.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), headquartered in Beijing, consists of nine member states: India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. It has evolved into a significant economic and security bloc, representing one of the largest trans-regional international organizations. Recently, Belarus joined as the 10th member.
Kazakhstan is currently hosting the SCO summit as it holds the chairmanship of the organisation. This summit provides a crucial platform for member states to discuss and collaborate on various regional and global issues, emphasising cooperation in areas such as security, economy, and cultural exchange.
Image Source: Greater Kashmir
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