At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' meeting in Qingdao, China, India stood firm against attempts by Pakistan, supported by China, to dilute the focus on cross-border terrorism. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh refused to sign the proposed joint statement, as it would have weakened India's consistent stance on the issue, which is seen as endangering regional peace and stability. The SCO norm of consensus meant that the statement could not be adopted, despite discussions, as India insisted on holding perpetrators, organizers, financiers, and sponsors of terrorist acts accountable.
India's strong stance comes in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 civilians were killed. Singh directly criticized Pakistan-backed groups for the attack. Sources indicate that China and Pakistan attempted to divert attention from terrorism by omitting any mention of the Pahalgam attack in the SCO document. Instead, the document reportedly mentioned Balochistan, a move perceived as an attempt to accuse India of creating unrest in the Pakistani province.
Singh emphasized that there should be no double standards in addressing terrorism. He reiterated India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, highlighting the country's right to defend itself against it. He stated that the "epicentres of terrorism are no longer safe," signaling India's willingness to take action against terrorist infrastructure. This was further underscored by India's successful launch of "Operation Sindoor" on May 7, aimed at dismantling cross-border terrorist infrastructure.
During his address, Singh called upon the SCO member states to unite in the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, emphasizing the need to hold those responsible for terrorism accountable. He also warned against the spread of radicalization among youth and urged proactive steps to prevent it.
On the sidelines of the SCO meeting, Singh held bilateral talks with his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Dong Jun, marking the first such dialogue since the 2020 Galwan clash. Discussions included military communication mechanisms and the possible resumption of the India-China hotline to avoid future border flare-ups. While no major breakthrough was announced, the meeting was seen as a positive sign that dialogue remains open despite ongoing tensions. Singh also met with the Defence Ministers of Russia, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Belarus.
India's firm stance at the SCO summit is not an isolated incident. At the 2023 SCO summit, New Delhi declined to endorse language supporting China’s Belt and Road Initiative. This consistent approach demonstrates India's commitment to its national interests and its refusal to compromise on issues of national security and sovereignty.
