PM Modi addresses SCO Summit: Raises cross-border terrorism, extremism 'challenges' | Key Highlights

Founded in Shanghai in June 2001, the SCO has expanded from six founding members into a 26-nation family of 10 members, two observers and 14 dialogue partners spanning Asia, Europe and Africa.

The summit meeting of the Heads of State of the 10-member Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) began on Monday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with other leaders of the organisation began a day-long deliberation to chalk out the future course of the bloc. 

Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed the leaders. 

The 25th summit was formally kicked off here on Sunday night with a massive banquet hosted by Xi . 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivers India's statement at the SCO Members Session in Tianjin

He says, "I am happy to participate in the SCO Summit. I want to thank President Xi Jinping for giving us a grand welcome. Today is the Independence Day of Uzbekistan, I congratulate them as well…”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi says...

"...India has played a very positive role as a member of the SCO. India's vision and policy for the SCO is based on three important pillars. S - Security, C- Connectivity and O - Opportunity”

At the SCO Members Session in Tianjin, China, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says...

"India has been bearing the brunt of the terrorism for the last four decades. Recently, we saw the worst side of terrorism in Pahalgam. I express my gratitude to the friendly country that stood with us in this hour of grief.”

"We have to say clearly and unanimously that no double standards are acceptable on terrorism..." says Prime Minister Narendra Modi at SCO

PM Modi says, "... This attack was an open challenge to every country and person who believes in humanity. In such a situation, it is natural to raise the question of whether the open support of terrorism by some countries can be acceptable to us. We have to unanimously oppose terrorism in every form and colour. This is our duty towards humanity…”

At SCO China, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Security, peace and stability are the basis of development of any country"

But terrorism, separatism and extremism are big challenges in this path. Terrorism is not just a challenge to the security of a country but a common challenge for all of humanity. No country, no society, no citizen can consider itself safe from it. Therefore, India has emphasised unity in the fight against terrorism...India took the initiative to fight Al Qaeda and the terrorist organisations associated with it by leading the Joint Information Operation...We raised our voice against terror financing. I express gratitude for your support in it.

"...Connectivity that bypasses sovereignty loses trust and meaning..." says Prime Minister Narendra Modi

PM Modi says, "India has always believed that strong connectivity not only boosts trade but also opens doors to growth and trust. With this in mind, we are working on initiatives like the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor. This will help us improve connectivity with Afghanistan and the Central Asia.”