External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the 23rd Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government on Wednesday, highlighting the detrimental effects of cross-border terrorism, extremism, and separatism on trade, travel, and people-to-people relations.
In a veiled reference to Pakistan, Jaishankar stated that if cross-border activities are characterized by terrorism and extremism, they are unlikely to foster trade, energy flows, or connectivity. He called for cooperation grounded in mutual respect and sovereign equality, criticizing “unilateral” connectivity initiatives, particularly in the context of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
Jaishankar remarked, “Globalization and rebalancing are undeniable realities that have created new opportunities for trade, investment, and connectivity. Our region would greatly benefit from advancing these efforts.” He stressed that cooperation must recognize territorial integrity and sovereignty and should not be driven by unilateral agendas.
While addressing the SCO meeting chaired by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Jaishankar reaffirmed the necessity of a firm commitment to the SCO Charter. He emphasized that development and growth hinge on peace and stability, which can only be achieved by effectively countering the “three evils” of terrorism, extremism, and separatism.
He urged attendees to consider the potential benefits of enhanced cooperation, including industrial collaboration that could boost competitiveness and employment opportunities. Jaishankar noted the importance of logistics and energy cooperation, alongside areas like environmental protection and health security.
Concluding his remarks, Jaishankar called for introspection regarding the state of relations between nations, stressing the importance of reaffirming commitments to the SCO Charter to fully realize the benefits of integration and cooperation.
Earlier, PM Sharif welcomed Jaishankar at the venue, and visuals from the meeting showed the two leaders shaking hands and posing for photographs.
