PM Modi's SCO Remarks: Highlights Global Shifts And Call For Unified Action

At the Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of States, PM Modi's remarks, themed 'Strengthening Multilateral Dialogue - Striving for Sustainable Peace and Development', were conveyed by EAM Dr Jaishankar, who was in attendance.

The current global landscape is characterized by significant shifts driven by geopolitical tensions, geo-economic dynamics, and technological advancements, all of which carry far-reaching implications.

Photo Credit: PTI

PM Modi's SCO Remarks - Here's What He Says

Looking forward, both immediate challenges and broader systemic opportunities are emerging from these shifts. The world is unmistakably progressing towards a state of real multipolarity, underscoring the increasing importance of organizations like the SCO. However, the effectiveness of the SCO hinges on robust cooperation among its members.

PM Modi stressed the need for unified action against terrorism, highlighting its use as a tool for destabilization by some nations. He unequivocally stated that terrorism in any form cannot be justified or condoned, emphasizing the importance of condemning the harbouring of terrorists and decisively countering terrorism financing and recruitment.

Geo-economically, PM Modi emphasized the necessity of creating multiple, reliable, and resilient supply chains, a lesson reinforced by the COVID-19 pandemic. He championed the 'Make in India' initiative as a driver of global economic growth and expressed India's readiness to collaborate with Global South nations in capacity building.

Regarding technology, PM Modi acknowledged its transformative potential in both developmental and security realms. He emphasized the need for trust and transparency in the digital era, addressing critical issues such as AI and cybersecurity. India's achievements in digital public infrastructure and financial inclusion were highlighted as models for international cooperation within the SCO framework.

PM Modi also underscored the importance of connectivity initiatives that respect sovereignty and territorial integrity while promoting non-discriminatory trade and transit rights among neighbouring states. He referenced India's recent agreement with Iran on the Chabahar port, which aims to facilitate commerce between India and Central Asia.

Turning to Afghanistan, PM Modi emphasized India's historical ties and ongoing cooperation with the Afghan people in various sectors, including development projects, humanitarian aid, capacity building, and sports.

The SCO, PM Modi affirmed, shares a commitment to reforming the current international order, particularly through initiatives at the United Nations, including the Security Council. He expressed hope for developing a consensus on these efforts in the near future.

India's contributions to the SCO's economic agenda were highlighted, including the establishment of mechanisms like the SCO Startup Forum and the Special Working Group on Startup and Innovation. India's experience with its vibrant startup ecosystem, boasting 130,000 startups including 100 unicorns, was presented as a valuable resource for other SCO members.

Additionally, PM Modi noted India's initiatives in medical and wellness tourism, such as the establishment of a Global Center for Traditional Medicine in Gujarat by the WHO, and the creation of a new SCO Working Group on Traditional Medicine. Education, training, and capacity-building remain crucial pillars of India's international cooperation strategy, extending to partners under the 'C5' framework, 'Neighbourhood First' policy, and the broader extended neighbourhood.

PM Modi highlighted the need for effective communication and consensus-building as more countries seek to engage with the SCO as Observers or Dialogue Partners. He emphasized the potential significance of granting English the status of a third official language within the SCO.

In conclusion, PM Modi congratulated Kazakhstan for hosting a successful SCO Summit and reaffirmed India's commitment to deepening cooperation with all SCO partners as a "friend of the world". He extended best wishes for the upcoming Chinese presidency of the SCO, underscoring India's dedication to collaborative and inclusive multilateralism.

This comprehensive passive voice reconstruction summarizes the key points and priorities articulated by PM Modi at the SCO meeting, highlighting India's perspectives on global challenges, regional cooperation, and the role of multilateral organizations like the SCO in fostering sustainable peace and development.