At the SCO Summit 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh targeted Pakistan on terrorism and delivered a b response to China's maneuvers. India refused to sign the joint document, dealing a blow to Pakistan and China.
SCO Summit 2025: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh bly addressed the issue of terrorism at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting, firmly presenting India's position. During the meeting, he exposed Pakistan on the global stage, referencing Pakistan-backed terrorism, the Pahalgam terror attack, and Operation Sindoor. Furthermore, in light of the tactics employed by China and Pakistan, he declined to sign the SCO's joint document.
Strong Message to Pakistan from the SCO Platform
Rajnath Singh stated at the SCO meeting that terrorism remains the biggest threat to the world. He emphasized that it is imperative to hold the perpetrators of terrorism and those who support them accountable. Questioning double standards, he asserted that all countries must unite in the fight against terrorism and that there should be no leniency or political self-interest involved.
The Issue Raised in the Presence of Pakistan's Defence Minister
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif was also present during the meeting. Without naming Pakistan directly, Rajnath Singh referred to the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor, in which Indian security forces gave a befitting response to the terrorists. He exposed Pakistan on the international stage, stating that those who support terror should not be given a place in the global community.
India's Objection to the SCO Joint Document
India refused to sign the SCO's joint document. The reason was that China and Pakistan were attempting to use the document to corner India. India believes that no multilateral platform should be used to escalate bilateral tensions. Rajnath Singh's move reflects confidence and strategic clarity in India's foreign policy.
What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation?
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Eurasian political, security, and economic organization. It was established in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Initially, it was known as the 'Shanghai Five', formed in 1996 to promote regional cooperation and resolve border disputes. Later, the organization was formally named the SCO.
Main Objectives of the SCO
The main objective of the SCO is to maintain regional peace, security, and stability. In its early years, the organization helped resolve racial and religious tensions, but later, its focus shifted to addressing threats such as terrorism, separatism, and extremism. However, the SCO has also been accused of failing to effectively implement its strategies against terrorism.
How India Became a Member
India had been an observer in the SCO since 2005. However, in 2017, India and Pakistan were granted full membership. This was a strategic move for India, providing an opportunity to strengthen its relations with Central Asian and Eurasian countries. India has always used the SCO platform to take a tough stance against terrorism and enhance regional cooperation.
India's Role and Priorities
India prioritizes economic and security cooperation within the SCO, as well as partnerships against terrorism. India uses this platform not only to clarify its stance against Pakistan but also to promote energy, trade, connectivity, and cultural exchange with Central Asia.
New Members of the SCO
The SCO is constantly expanding. Iran joined the organization in 2023, while Belarus became a member in 2024. This makes it clear that the SCO is no longer limited to security but is becoming a broader regional organization. In such a scenario, the active participation of a democratic country like India becomes even more important.
