India calls for complete dismantling of terror ecosystem at SCO summit

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday underscored the need for comprehensive action against terrorism, asserting there can be no tolerance for nations or entities that bankroll, sustain, or shelter terrorist organisations. Speaking at the SCO conclave, Singh emphasised that dismantling the entire ecosystem of terrorism requires coordinated regional efforts and unwavering commitment from all member states.

Singh's remarks reflected India's hardline stance on counterterrorism, a priority area for New Delhi given its own experience with cross-border militant activities. The Defence Minister's statement targeted not just terror groups themselves but the complex networks of financial support, diplomatic cover, and territorial sanctuaries that enable their operations.

Beyond security concerns, India signalled its commitment to regional prosperity by endorsing a collective action plan aimed at fostering trade and economic cooperation among SCO members. The endorsement reflects India's dual approach of maintaining robust security measures while pursuing constructive economic engagement within the multilateral grouping.

The SCO, which includes China, Russia, Pakistan, and Central Asian nations alongside India, has long grappled with balancing security imperatives with economic collaboration. India's positions at the meeting underscored New Delhi's expectation that member states align on counterterrorism principles while advancing shared commercial interests.