PM Modi Ahead of SCO Summit: Terror-Free Region Remains India’s Priority

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has outlined India’s priorities ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, stressing the importance of security, connectivity and opportunities. He said India is committed to advancing this vision within the SCO framework and working with fellow member countries towards a region free from the threat of terrorism.

The statement comes at a time when regional security, terrorism and cross-border challenges remain important issues for the SCO. India has consistently called for stronger international cooperation against terrorism and has emphasised the need for collective action against the threat.

Security at the centre of India’s approach

Security remains one of the key elements of India’s approach towards regional cooperation. According to India’s position, sustainable peace and economic development require a stable and secure environment.

Terrorism, extremism and instability can affect not only individual countries but also the wider region. These challenges can have consequences for economic growth, investment, trade and people-to-people relations.

By highlighting the need for a region free from terrorism, PM Modi has once again underlined India’s focus on making counter-terrorism cooperation an important part of the SCO agenda.

Focus on regional connectivity

Connectivity is another major component of India’s vision. Better regional connectivity can support trade, investment, tourism and greater interaction between people and businesses.

India has supported greater regional connectivity while emphasising transparency, mutual trust and respect for the interests of participating countries. Transport links, trade corridors and other forms of regional connectivity can play an important role in strengthening economic cooperation among SCO members.

Creating greater opportunities

PM Modi also referred to opportunities as an important part of India’s approach. This includes economic cooperation, trade, investment, technology and opportunities for young people.

Greater economic engagement among SCO members could create new avenues for businesses and contribute to regional growth. At a time when the global economy faces several challenges, stronger regional cooperation can provide additional opportunities for trade and investment.

Collective fight against terrorism

India has repeatedly maintained that the fight against terrorism requires a united international response. It has also argued that there should be no double standards when dealing with terrorism.

Counter-terrorism cooperation can involve not only security agencies but also efforts against financial networks and other mechanisms that enable terrorist activities. Multilateral organisations such as the SCO can provide a platform for member countries to improve coordination and share approaches to regional security.

India’s role in the SCO

India’s role within the SCO has become increasingly important in discussions concerning regional security, connectivity and economic cooperation.

Through the organisation, India has sought to promote regional stability while putting forward its priorities on security and development. PM Modi’s latest remarks reflect this broader approach, with security being linked to connectivity and economic opportunities.

A broader vision for regional cooperation

The Prime Minister’s statement also highlights that India’s approach is not limited to security issues. India wants regional cooperation to include economic development, connectivity and greater opportunities alongside efforts to address terrorism.

Improved cooperation among SCO members could strengthen trade and investment while creating better links between economies and people. At the same time, stronger security cooperation could contribute to greater regional stability.

Key issues ahead

Security, terrorism, regional connectivity, economic cooperation and coordination among member states are expected to remain important issues in SCO discussions.

PM Modi’s statement indicates that India wants to promote a regional cooperation framework where security and development go together. For India, a region free from terrorism is an essential foundation for achieving greater connectivity, economic growth and opportunities.