‘Isolate and expose’ countries that harbour terrorists: India at SCO summit

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday called on the global community to isolate countries providing safe havens to terrorists. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) of Heads of State Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Jaishankar stated, "The global community must isolate and expose those countries that harbour terrorists, provide safe havens, and condone terrorism."

In a veiled attack on Pakistan, Jaishankar said, "Cross- border terrorism requires decisive response and terrorism financing and recruitment must be resolutely countered."

Jaishankar, representing Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the meeting, emphasised one of the SCO's foundational goals: combating terrorism. "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," he stated. The summit was attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, among others.

Jaishankar stressed the need to "isolate and expose those countries that harbour terrorists, provide safe havens and condone terrorism," a pointed reference to Pakistan and its ally China, which has frequently blocked United Nations proposals to blacklist Pakistan-based terrorists.

"We should also take proactive steps to prevent the spread of radicalisation among our youth," he added, noting that a joint statement issued during India's presidency last year highlighted New Delhi's shared commitment.

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He highlighted that the SCO offers a unique platform for unity, collaboration, and prosperity, based on the ancient principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning ‘The World is One Family’. Jaishankar later posted on X, "Delivered India's statement at the Summit of SCO Council of Heads of States on behalf of PM Shri @narendramodi ji. Thank the leaders present for conveying their best wishes to Prime Minister @narendramodi on his re-election for a third successive term."

Describing the SCO as a principle-based organisation driven by consensus among its member states, Jaishankar noted that the group holds a "prominent place in our foreign policy". He emphasised India's deep civilisational ties with the region's people, highlighting India's focus on Central Asia's interests and aspirations through greater exchanges, projects, and activities.

During India's SCO presidency, cooperation has been people-centric, exemplified by events like the SCO Millet Food Festival, SCO Film Festival, SCO Surajkund Craft Mela, SCO Think-Tanks Conference, and International Conference on Shared Buddhist Heritage. "We will naturally support similar endeavors by others," he added.

Jaishankar also congratulated Kazakhstan for successfully hosting the summit and extended India's best wishes to China for its upcoming SCO presidency. Additionally, he expressed "deepest condolences" for the tragic death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and others in a helicopter crash.

The SCO, which now includes nine member states—India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan—has become an influential economic and security bloc. Belarus recently joined as the 10th member, and Kazakhstan hosted the summit as the current chair of the group.