Rajnath Singh Delivers Strong Message on Terrorism in Presence of Pakistan's Ishaq Dar at SCO Meeting

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for collective international action against terrorism, warning that countries and entities that finance, support or shelter terrorist groups must face scrutiny. His remarks were delivered in the presence of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Ishaq Dar, during the 25th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.  He stressed that terrorism threatens regional stability, costs innocent lives, discourages investment and disrupts commercial activity. He also argued that the international community must adopt a consistent approach to combating terrorism, without double standards, and work together to dismantle the networks that sustain militant organisations. His comments were widely interpreted as a pointed message to Pakistan, given India's longstanding concerns about cross-border terrorism.

India Reiterates Opposition to CPEC

Beyond security, the Defence Minister raised concerns about regional connectivity projects that do not respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity. India has consistently opposed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship component of China's Belt and Road Initiative, because part of the corridor passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, territory claimed by India. New Delhi maintains that development projects must respect sovereignty if they are to support lasting regional cooperation.

New Delhi Promotes Alternative Trade Routes

Rajnath Singh highlighted India's support for initiatives such as the International North-South Transport Corridor and Iran's Chabahar Port, which could improve trade links between Central Asia and wider international markets. He also called for simpler customs procedures, digital documentation, improved logistics and stronger supply chains to reduce trade costs and encourage economic development across SCO member states.

A Call for Practical Regional Cooperation

The Defence Minister urged SCO members to focus on concrete results, mutual respect and sovereign equality. He said cooperation should address shared economic and security challenges rather than create unnecessary institutions or duplicate existing efforts. The address placed counterterrorism and respect for territorial integrity at the centre of India's message to the regional grouping, while also highlighting opportunities for trade and economic cooperation.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.