SCO Summit 2025 / Setback for PAK in China, Pahalgam terror attack condemned in SCO declaration

A unanimous declaration was issued at the SCO meeting held in Tianjin, China. It strongly condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack and demanded punishment for the culprits. Prime Minister Modi called double standards on terrorism unacceptable and called upon member countries to fight unitedly.

SCO Summit 2025: An important meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was held on Monday, 1 September 2025 in Tianjin city of China. In this meeting, the SCO leaders unanimously issued a declaration, strongly condemning the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025. The declaration demanded that the culprits, organizers and sponsors of the attack be brought to justice, although Pakistan's name was not explicitly mentioned in it.

India's firm stand: Double standards against terrorism unacceptable

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address, took a tough stand against terrorism and said that double standards are not acceptable. He termed the Pahalgam terror attack as an open challenge to every country that believes in humanity. PM Modi called on the SCO member countries to fight unitedly against terrorism, which received widespread support in the declaration.

Highlights of the Tianjin Declaration

The Tianjin Declaration reiterated the SCO's commitment against terrorism, separatism and extremism. Its key points are as follows:
Condemnation of Pahalgam attack: Member States strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on 22 April 2025 and expressed deep condolences to the families of the dead and injured.
Demand for justice: The need to punish the perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of the attack was emphasized.
Solidarity against terrorism: The Declaration condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, while making it clear that double standards are unacceptable in the fight against terrorism.
Prevention of cross-border terrorism: Member States called on the international community to cooperate to prevent cross-border activities of terrorists.
Role of sovereign countries: The leading role of sovereign countries and their competent authorities in combating terrorism and extremism was recognized.

India's initiatives appreciated at global platform

The Declaration particularly recognised the steps and initiatives taken by India. It includes the following points:
Theme of "One Earth, One Family, One Future": The Declaration echoed India's global vision, which promotes cooperation and unity.
SCO Startup Forum: The results of the 5th SCO Startup Forum held on 3-5 April 2025 in New Delhi were welcomed, which promoted cooperation in scientific and technological innovation.
SCO Think Tank Forum: The 20th meeting held on 21-22 May 2025 in New Delhi was noted, which was important in strengthening regional cooperation and consultation.
Cultural Exchange: The contribution of the SCO Study Centre at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) was appreciated for promoting cultural and humanitarian exchange.