Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday advocated for peace at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting, emphasizing that the current era should not be defined by war and conflict. Addressing the SCO defence ministers' meeting, Singh highlighted the need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve disputes and maintain regional stability.
Key Points from Rajnath Singh's Address
Singh stated that the world is facing numerous challenges, including terrorism, extremism, and the COVID-19 pandemic, which require collective efforts to overcome. He stressed that no country can tackle these issues alone and that cooperation among SCO member states is essential.
Emphasis on Dialogue and Diplomacy
The defence minister underscored the importance of adhering to international law and the United Nations Charter. He called for respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. Singh also reiterated India's commitment to peace and stability in the region.
Counter-Terrorism Cooperation
Singh highlighted the threat of terrorism and called for stronger cooperation among SCO members to combat terrorism, extremism, and separatism. He urged all member states to work together to prevent the use of terrorist proxies and to dismantle terrorist networks.
Regional Security and Stability
He also discussed the situation in Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. Singh called for the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan that represents all sections of society. He warned against allowing Afghan territory to be used for terrorist activities against any country.
India's Role in SCO
India has been an active member of the SCO since its full membership in 2017. Singh's statement reaffirms India's commitment to the SCO's principles of mutual trust, respect, and cooperation. The SCO is a significant platform for regional security and economic cooperation, comprising eight member states: China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Conclusion
Rajnath Singh's call for peace and dialogue at the SCO meeting reflects India's consistent foreign policy stance. By advocating for cooperation over conflict, Singh has positioned India as a responsible stakeholder in global and regional security. The SCO meeting serves as a crucial forum for addressing common challenges and fostering mutual understanding among member states.
