Moscow, Russia – Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Moscow, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar issued a strong warning against terrorism, emphasizing that there can be "no justification, no looking away, and no whitewashing," particularly for perpetrators of the Delhi blast.
Jaishankar's remarks come in the wake of the recent Delhi blast and amid growing concerns about regional security. He stressed the importance of holding those responsible accountable for their actions, stating that the SCO must stand united against all forms of terrorism.
"We must never forget that the SCO was founded to combat the three evils of terrorism, separatism, and extremism," Jaishankar stated. "These threats have become even more serious in the years that have passed. It is imperative that the world displays zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations".
The External Affairs Minister's address also highlighted the need for the SCO to adapt to the changing global landscape, develop an expanded agenda, and reform its working methods. He specifically mentioned India's efforts to establish free trade agreements with other SCO members. "India's endeavours to conclude free trade agreements with many of us here are relevant," Mr. Jaishankar said.
Furthermore, Jaishankar underscored the significance of people-to-people exchanges in fostering genuine relationships among SCO members. He referenced Prime Minister Modi's proposal at the Tianjin SCO Summit to launch an SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum. "As a civilisational state, India strongly believes that people-to-people exchanges lie at the core of any genuine relationship," Jaishankar added. "Facilitating greater interaction between our intellectuals, artists, sportspeople, and cultural icons will pave the way for deeper understanding across the SCO".
The SCO, which includes Belarus, China, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, has been focused on regional security and cooperation. India became a member in 2017.
In related news, following the Delhi blast, various leaders have voiced their concerns and opinions. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah advocated for stringent punishment for those involved but cautioned against collective suspicion towards Kashmiri Muslims. Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti echoed this sentiment, urging authorities not to impose "collective punishment" on the people of Kashmir. "Don't give collective punishment to all Kashmiris. If anyone did wrong, punish him, but don't treat all equally. Those responsible for the Delhi blast should be punished,” Mehbooba told reporters.
Meanwhile, investigations continue into the Nowgam police station blast, with officials working to determine the cause of the incident.
