PM Modi Calls for Unified Action Against Terrorism, Boosts Vision for Connectivity and Cultural Cooperation at 25th SCO Summit. 

Tianjin, China:

In a wide-ranging and strongly-worded address at the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s steadfast commitment to peace, security, connectivity, and reform-oriented multilateralism. Speaking in Tianjin, China, PM Modi laid out India’s strategic vision under the pillars of Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity (SCO) – a framework that aligns with India’s broader goals of regional stability and global cooperation.

Three Pillars of India’s SCO Vision: Security, Connectivity, Opportunity

Addressing leaders from the eight-member bloc, PM Modi emphasized that India’s engagement with the SCO is guided by a clear and actionable vision centered around the three foundational pillars:

1. S – Security
   Calling terrorism the greatest threat to humanity, PM Modi condemned acts of extremism and separatism and called for unified, decisive action by SCO member states. He described terrorism as a shared global challenge, and highlighted India’s leadership in counterterrorism efforts, particularly through the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS).

   India, he noted, led a Joint Information Operation this year focused on dismantling networks affiliated with Al-Qaeda, and has consistently called for greater coordination to combat radicalization and terror financing.

   Referring to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Prime Minister delivered a poignant message:

   “This attack was not only an assault on the conscience of India, but an open challenge to every nation and individual who believes in humanity.”

   He expressed gratitude to fellow SCO members for their solidarity during India’s time of grief, but warned against double standards on terrorism, stating:

   “Can the open support for terrorism by certain countries ever be acceptable to us? We must oppose terrorism in every form and manifestation.”

2. C – Connectivity
   On the second pillar, PM Modi emphasized the role of connectivity not just in facilitating trade but in building trust and development across the region. He cited India’s initiatives like the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) as transformative tools for strengthening regional linkages.

   He stressed that all connectivity projects must respect sovereignty and territorial integrity, referring to SCO Charter principles, and cautioned that connectivity that undermines sovereignty loses its legitimacy.

3. O – Opportunity
   Highlighting India’s presidency of the SCO in 2023, PM Modi pointed to new initiatives launched under India’s leadership, including areas like start-ups and innovation, traditional medicine, youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and Buddhist heritage.
4.  

   To build on these achievements, PM Modi proposed the creation of a SCO Civilizational Dialogue Forum to foster cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections across ancient civilizations.

   “Let us bring our civilizational richness – our art, literature, and traditions – to the global stage, through shared dialogue and engagement,” he stated.

Reform, Multilateralism, and Global Justice

PM Modi lauded the SCO for its evolution and welcomed the establishment of four new centres to tackle pressing issues such as organized crime, drug trafficking, and cybersecurity. He urged similar reformist approaches to be applied to global institutions, particularly the United Nations, which will mark its 80th anniversary next year.

“The colourful dreams of the new generation cannot be displayed on a black-and-white screen. It is time to change the screen,” said PM Modi, in a metaphor calling for inclusive global governance that reflects the aspirations of the Global South.

Support for SCO Unity and Future Cooperation

PM Modi expressed appreciation for President Xi Jinping’s hospitality and acknowledged China’s successful chairmanship of the Summit. He congratulated President Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan for assuming the next SCO Presidency, expressing India’s continued support and cooperation.

The summit concluded with the unanimous adoption of the Tianjin Declaration, reinforcing SCO’s commitment to regional peace, multilateral reform, and inclusive development.

Key Takeaways from PM Modi’s Address at SCO 2025

• Strong condemnation of terrorism and call for accountability of state sponsors.
• Appeal to end double standards and adopt a unified SCO position on terrorism.
• Support for connectivity projects like Chabahar and INSTC that respect sovereignty.
• Proposal for a Civilizational Dialogue Forum to foster cultural and academic exchanges.
• Call for reform of global institutions, especially the UN, in line with modern challenges.
• Recognition of SCO’s role in regional security, counterterrorism, and multilateralism.

As India continues to expand its regional influence while balancing strategic autonomy, PM Modi’s address signals a forward-leaning yet pragmatic approach to diplomacy—anchored in security, mutual respect, and shared civilizational values.