External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that terrorism is a significant threat to global peace and security, during an interview with Kazinform News Agency. He underscored the important role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in tackling terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
Jaishankar commended Kazakhstan for its efforts during its Chairmanship of the SCO, which resulted in an updated program to combat these three evils. He stressed that while creating such programs is crucial, their successful implementation is even more important. “There is no doubt that the major challenge faced by the world today is terrorism,” Jaishankar said. He called for urgent action from all SCO member states to address this threat.
During India’s presidency of the SCO last year, joint statements focusing on countering radicalization and terrorism were adopted. Jaishankar praised Kazakhstan for continuing the spirit of these statements and emphasized the need for a unified commitment to eliminate all forms of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism.
SCO’s Security Role Highlighted
Jaishankar attended the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit in Astana, representing India and delivering remarks on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He held several bilateral meetings with global leaders, reinforcing the importance of the SCO in regional security.
He highlighted the theme of the 2023 SCO Summit under India’s presidency, “Towards a SECURE SCO,” where SECURE stands for Security, Economic cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environment. Jaishankar pointed out that terrorism, particularly cross-border terrorism, remains a critical issue in the region despite global efforts to combat it through forums like the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
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Comprehensive Approach to Combat Terrorism
Jaishankar called for a comprehensive approach to combating terrorism, targeting not only the perpetrators but also the facilitators, financiers, and sponsors of terrorism. He suggested strengthening the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) and proposed the establishment of a Universal Centre within RATS in Tashkent. This centre, along with other specialized centres, aims to become a leading anti-terrorism institution in the region.
The Foreign Minister also addressed the issue of drug trafficking, linking it to regional terrorism and instability in Afghanistan. He expressed support for the establishment of an Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Jaishankar believes that this centre, in conjunction with the proposed Universal Centre, will be an effective tool in combating drug trafficking.
Jaishankar emphasized the need for consensus on security initiatives, respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all involved countries. He reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening SCO mechanisms to effectively tackle terrorism and drug trafficking, ensuring regional security and stability.
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