Moscow, Nov 18: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar today called upon the international community to display zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Moscow, he emphasized that terrorism remains the foremost threat to regional peace and stability.
Dr. Jaishankar asserted that there can be no justification, no looking away, and no whitewashing of terrorism. He reiterated India’s sovereign right to defend its citizens against such threats and underlined that security cannot be compromised in the face of persistent cross-border challenges.
The Minister highlighted that terrorism, separatism, and extremism have worsened in recent years, demanding a collective and uncompromising response. He urged SCO member states to adapt to the changing global landscape, expand their agenda, and reform working methods to effectively counter these threats.
Jaishankar further noted that humanitarian cooperation is crucial in an era marked by climate change, pandemics, and conflicts. He stressed that people-to-people exchanges and civilizational values must remain at the core of international cooperation, alongside strong security measures.
Concluding his address, the External Affairs Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to contribute positively and fully to the objectives of the SCO. He called for unity among nations to ensure that terrorism is confronted with absolute resolve and that peace and stability are preserved across the region.
