Jaishankar Highlights Terrorism Threat at SCO, Points to Pahalgam Attack

During the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting held in Tianjin, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar condemned terrorism and cited the recent attack in Pahalgam, India, as a stark reminder of the threat. He referenced the UN Security Council’s condemnation of the Pahalgam incident. Jaishankar identified terrorism, separatism, and extremism as interconnected threats. He stated that the attack was aimed at destabilizing the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir, while sowing religious division. He stressed the need for the SCO to take an uncompromising position against terrorism to remain true to its founding objectives. Jaishankar emphasized India’s determination to hold perpetrators accountable. He highlighted the importance of SCO member states working together to stabilize the global order. He noted the increase in conflicts, competition, and economic instability. Jaishankar mentioned India’s initiatives in various sectors, including startup innovation, traditional medicine, and digital public infrastructure. He stressed the need to address issues such as lack of transit within the SCO space and to boost the INSTC. He also emphasized the need for international aid to Afghanistan. He remarked on the trend towards a multi-polar world and the importance of collaborative action within the SCO. Jaishankar also held several bilateral meetings.