India's Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, urged member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to collaborate in eradicating terrorism and its ecosystem during the 25th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government on October 20, 2026, in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
In his address, Rajnath Singh emphasized that terrorism results in the loss of innocent lives and disrupts investments and commerce. He further stated that there should be no justification for terrorism, no double standards in addressing it, and no safe havens for terrorists.
The Defence Minister also recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's emphasis during the SCO Summit in Bishkek in August-September 2026 on concrete steps by the Organisation on issues related to security, connectivity, and opportunity. Rajnath Singh stressed India’s belief that economic engagement should be inclusive and mutually beneficial for all Member States.
He further emphasized the need for SCO to build consensus and take concrete action to address the uncertain global economic environment marked by geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, energy and food security concerns, and emerging technological divides. Rajnath Singh suggested strengthening resilient supply chains, facilitating trade and investment, and leveraging technology to drive development.
Rajnath Singh welcomed decisions taken at the SCO Summit to establish the Universal Centre in Tashkent and the Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe as permanent bodies of the Organisation. He underscored that their effectiveness would depend on efficient coordination and timely execution of tasks.
The Defence Minister also emphasized the importance of connectivity for shared prosperity, stating India supports initiatives that link markets, facilitate trade, and create new avenues for development. He said initiatives such as the International North-South Transport Corridor and the Chabahar Port can contribute significantly to connecting Central Asia with broader markets.
Rajnath Singh stressed that connectivity must be based on consultation and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, adding that projects not founded on these principles will not be sustainable. He emphasized the need to move beyond physical connectivity by simplifying customs procedures, promoting digital documentation, improving logistics, and adopting interoperable digital solutions to reduce the cost of doing business across the region.
Rajnath Singh highlighted the symposium on financing infrastructure projects in Central Asia, held in Mumbai earlier this month, and expressed gratitude to Central Asian countries and SCO partners for their active participation. He also acknowledged the organization of the first-ever SCO Asian Economic Dialogue.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
