In a significant diplomatic achievement for India, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states unanimously condemned the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, expressed condolences to the victims, and called for justice against the perpetrators. The 25th Council of Heads of State summit, held in Tianjin, China, concluded with the adoption of the Tianjin Declaration, which delivered a strong message of unity against terrorism while recognizing India’s vital contributions to regional peace and development.
The declaration rejected double standards in counterterrorism efforts, underlining the need for global cooperation to curb the cross-border movement of terrorists. It also conveyed a firm stance against terrorism, separatism, and extremism, and acknowledged India’s global vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” reaffirming the country’s leadership in fostering inclusive and sustainable growth.
The summit, themed “Upholding the Shanghai Spirit: SCO on the Move,” focused on regional stability, security, and long-term development. Leaders from over 20 nations and 10 international organizations participated in the discussions.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined India’s approach to strengthening cooperation within the SCO framework, anchored on three pillars – Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity. He emphasized that peace, security, and stability are fundamental to prosperity, calling on member states to take decisive and coordinated action against terrorism in all its forms. He further underlined the urgency of combating terror financing and radicalization, stressing that there can be no double standards in the fight against terrorism.
Highlighting connectivity as a driver of development and trust, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s support for projects such as the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). He also underscored the potential of collaboration in start-ups, innovation, youth empowerment, and shared cultural heritage under the SCO framework.
On the sidelines of the summit, Prime Minister Modi held key bilateral meetings. With Russian President Vladimir Putin, he reviewed ties under the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, focusing on energy, economy, and defense cooperation. The two leaders also discussed the Ukraine conflict, with Prime Minister Modi reiterating India’s consistent stance of promoting peace through dialogue. He expressed hope to host President Putin later this year for the 23rd Annual India-Russia Summit.
In another significant engagement, Prime Minister Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping. Both leaders reaffirmed that India and China are partners in development rather than rivals. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that peace along the border remains essential for the advancement of bilateral relations.
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