Tianjin (China), Sep 1 (PTI) - Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in the presence of various global leaders, including Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping, called the Pahalgam terror attack an assault on India's conscience and a challenge to nations that value humanity.
He urged the rejection of "double standards" in combating terrorism. "It is natural to ask -- can the open support for terrorism by certain countries ever be acceptable to us?" Modi asked, directing his question to Pakistan and its supporters. "We must state it clearly and in one voice: double standards on terrorism are unacceptable," he declared. "Together, we must oppose terrorism in every form and manifestation. This is our responsibility towards humanity."
India responded to the Pahalgam attack with Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled territories. The strikes led to four days of clashes, concluding on May 10 with an agreement to cease military actions.
Modi expressed gratitude to allies who supported India during this difficult time. "Countless mothers have lost their children, and innumerable children have been left orphaned," he said, reflecting on India's enduring struggle with terrorism.
Highlighting his vision for the SCO, Modi introduced the acronym "SCO" as standing for Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity. "Security, peace, and stability are fundamental to national development, but terrorism, separatism, and extremism remain significant obstacles," he noted.
Reiterating the global threat posed by terrorism, Modi stated, "No country, no society, no citizen can consider themselves completely safe from it. That is why India has consistently stressed the importance of unity in the fight against terrorism."
Emphasizing the role of connectivity in regional growth, Modi advocated for respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, a veiled reference to China's Belt and Road Initiative, which India opposes due to its passage through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Modi proposed the creation of a Civilisational Dialogue Forum within the SCO to showcase ancient civilizations, arts, and traditions globally. He also stressed the importance of advancing the Global South's development, warning against confining their aspirations in outdated frameworks.
Modi highlighted India's journey of "reform, perform, and transform," emphasizing the nation's ability to turn challenges, including Covid and economic instability, into opportunities.
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