DUSHANBE, TAJIKISTAN: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called upon Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states to take coordinated action to dismantle the entire ecosystem of terrorism, emphasising that there can be no justification for terrorism, no double standards in addressing it and no place for those who support or finance terrorist activities.
Addressing the 25th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on October 20, 2026, Singh described terrorism as one of the gravest threats to peace, security and development. He highlighted its devastating impact on innocent lives, investment, trade and opportunities for young people.
The Defence Minister stressed that the SCO must strengthen cooperation on security, connectivity and economic development while upholding the principles of sovereign equality, consensus and mutual respect. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks at the SCO Summit in Bishkek in August–September 2026, Singh called for concrete measures that translate collective commitments into practical outcomes.
India Calls for Inclusive Economic Cooperation
Highlighting the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, supply-chain vulnerabilities and concerns over energy and food security, Singh underscored the need for resilient supply chains, stronger trade and investment ties, and greater use of technology to accelerate development.
He reaffirmed India’s support for adopting the Action Plan for the Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation Programme for 2026–2030. He also emphasised that new institutional mechanisms within the SCO should address clearly identified needs, avoid duplication and deliver tangible benefits to member states.
Singh welcomed the decisions taken at the Bishkek Summit to establish the Universal Centre in Tashkent and the Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe as permanent bodies of the organisation. He noted that effective coordination and timely implementation would be essential to achieving their objectives.
Connectivity Must Respect Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity
Emphasising the role of connectivity in promoting regional prosperity, Singh highlighted the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chabahar Port as important initiatives that could strengthen Central Asia’s access to wider international markets.
He stressed that connectivity projects must be based on consultation and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. He also called for simplifying customs procedures, expanding digital documentation, improving logistics and adopting interoperable digital solutions to reduce the cost of doing business across the region.
The Defence Minister acknowledged the participation of Central Asian countries and SCO partners in a symposium on financing infrastructure projects in Central Asia, held in Mumbai earlier in October. He also highlighted the organisation of the first-ever SCO Asian Economic Dialogue.
Technology, Start-ups and Opportunities for Youth
Singh emphasised that the success of the SCO should be measured by the opportunities it creates for young people, entrepreneurs, farmers and small businesses. He highlighted India’s experience in using technology and innovation to drive economic growth, improve public service delivery and expand financial inclusion through Digital Public Infrastructure.
He also pointed to India’s growing start-up ecosystem and its emphasis on women-led development as important examples of inclusive economic progress. Highlighting India’s international initiatives, Singh referred to the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission LiFE and the Global Biofuel Alliance as platforms supporting clean energy, climate resilience and sustainable development.
SCO Adopts Joint Communiqué and Economic Cooperation Action Plan
Calling for a forward-looking roadmap built on consensus and measurable outcomes, Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to working closely with all SCO member states. He also invited participating countries to join the first SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum, which India is scheduled to host later in 2026.
The meeting reviewed progress in multilateral economic and trade cooperation and discussed measures to strengthen collaboration in transport, finance, the digital economy and social development. The Heads of Delegation adopted the Joint Communiqué of the 25th SCO Council of Heads of Government Meeting, along with the organisation’s budget for 2027, relevant financial and administrative decisions, and the PMTEC Action Plan for 2026–2030.
India has been a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation since 2017 and continues to participate actively in its initiatives to strengthen regional security, economic cooperation and development.
