PM Modi raises pressing global issues and calls for increased cooperation at SCO summit

The SCO has been an important forum for peace, progress, and development in the Asian region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the virtual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Tuesday and raised pressing issues like terrorism, climate change and others. During his address, he also raised the issue of the food, oil, and fertiliser crises prevailing in the world and called for decisive action against the threats of terrorism and extremism.

He said that we should think together about whether, as an organisation, we are fulfilling the expectations and aspirations of the people. Are we able to meet modern challenges, and is the SCO becoming an organisation that is fully prepared for the future?

In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister said that in the last two decades, the SCO has been an important forum for peace, progress, and development in the Asian region. We see it not just as an extended neighbourhood but as an extended family.

He said that India has created five new dimensions of cooperation in the SCO. These include startups and innovation, traditional medicine, youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and shared Buddhist heritage.

PM Modi said, India is making efforts based on two principles- Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and security. India considers the world to be one family. At the same time, it supports the thinking, which is focused on security, economic development, connectivity, unity, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and environmental protection.

The Prime Minister once again drew attention to the threat to global peace from terrorism and called for decisive action on it. He said that we should not hesitate to criticise countries that use cross-border terrorism as a weapon.

During this, the Prime Minister raised the issue of Afghanistan and said that India is a supporter of inclusive government and the rights of women and children in the neighbouring country. He said that India does not want Afghanistan to become a cause of instability in other countries.

PM Modi congratulated Iran on joining the SCO as a new member. He also welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Obligation to include Belarus. He said that with the involvement of Iran, now India will be able to cooperate in a better way regarding Chabahar Port.

The Prime Minister expressed happiness over sharing the AI-based linguistic platform Bhashini with everyone. This will remove language barriers in SCO countries.