Bishkek: Rajnath Singh delivered a firm message on terrorism at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Defence Ministers’ Meeting, asserting that there can be no double standards in addressing the global threat. He underlined India’s uncompromising stance, stating that terrorism in all forms must be dealt with decisively.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, Singh emphasised that India has demonstrated its resolve to hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of where they operate. He noted that terrorist networks and their bases cannot remain beyond the reach of justice, reinforcing India’s policy of zero tolerance toward terrorism.
Highlighting the broader impact of such acts, he recalled the devastating attack in Pahalgam, describing it as an incident that shook global conscience. He stressed that terrorism remains one of the most serious challenges facing the world today, compounded by rising extremism and radicalisation. Singh also cautioned against ignoring state-sponsored cross-border terrorism, calling it a direct threat to national sovereignty.
Placing his remarks in a wider geopolitical context, Singh observed that the global landscape is increasingly unstable, marked by frequent conflicts and growing unilateralism. He pointed out that in such a fragmented environment, the role of multilateral groupings like the SCO becomes even more crucial in maintaining stability and fostering cooperation.
While maintaining a strong stance on security, Singh also advocated dialogue and diplomacy as essential tools for conflict resolution. Drawing on the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, he stressed the importance of restraint and mutual respect in international relations. He called for a fair and rules-based global order where differences are managed constructively and do not escalate into crises.
Emphasising collective responsibility, Singh said that SCO member nations, representing a large portion of the global population, must work together to ensure peace and stability. On the sidelines of the summit, he also held key discussions with counterparts from China and Russia, focusing on regional security and cooperation.
