Zero tolerance, no whitewashing: Jaishankar on terrorism at SCO meeting in Russia

Zero tolerance, no whitewashing: Jaishankar on terrorism at SCO meeting in Russia

## India Calls for SCO Reform, Emphasizes Zero Tolerance on Terrorism

**Moscow, Russia** – India has urged the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to undergo significant reforms to better address contemporary global challenges, with a particular emphasis on combating terrorism. Speaking at a recent SCO meeting held in Russia, India’s representative articulated the nation’s vision for a more agile and effective regional security architecture.

The core message delivered was a call for the SCO to adapt proactively to the evolving geopolitical landscape. India believes the organization must move beyond its traditional focus areas and embrace a broader, more comprehensive agenda that reflects the complexities of the 21st century. This includes addressing emerging threats, fostering greater economic cooperation, and strengthening cultural ties among member states.

A central pillar of India’s proposal is a reinforced commitment to counter-terrorism efforts within the SCO framework. Emphasizing a policy of “zero tolerance,” the Indian representative underscored the imperative of dismantling terrorist networks and preventing the spread of extremist ideologies. This call to action included a firm rejection of any attempts to whitewash or downplay the severity of terrorist activities, highlighting the need for transparent and unequivocal condemnation of all forms of terrorism.

Beyond the critical issue of security, India advocated for a revitalization of the SCO’s operational mechanisms. The current working methods, according to the Indian delegation, require streamlining to enhance efficiency and responsiveness. This reform agenda aims to foster a more collaborative environment, enabling member states to effectively address shared challenges through coordinated action.

The call for reform comes at a crucial juncture for the SCO. As the organization navigates a rapidly changing world order, the need for adaptation and innovation has become increasingly apparent. India’s proposals are intended to contribute to a broader discussion on the future direction of the SCO, ensuring its continued relevance and effectiveness in promoting regional stability and cooperation.

While the specific details of the proposed reforms remain under discussion, the Indian delegation’s intervention has undoubtedly injected fresh impetus into the ongoing dialogue regarding the SCO’s strategic orientation. The emphasis on a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, coupled with the call for a more expansive agenda and improved working methods, reflects India’s commitment to strengthening the organization and enhancing its capacity to address the multifaceted challenges facing the region.

The success of these proposed reforms will depend on the collective will of the SCO member states to embrace change and work collaboratively towards a shared vision. As the organization continues to evolve, India’s proactive engagement and commitment to fostering a more robust and responsive SCO will be crucial in shaping its future trajectory. The coming months will be critical in determining whether the SCO can successfully adapt to the evolving global landscape and solidify its role as a vital platform for regional cooperation and security.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.