Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday underscored India’s vision for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), built on three key pillars — Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity. Addressing the 25th meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State in Tianjin, Modi highlighted India’s commitment to strengthening peace, stability, and cooperation within the grouping.
“As an active and committed member of the SCO, India has consistently played a constructive and positive role in advancing the organisation’s objectives. Our engagement is guided by three key pillars: S – Security, C – Connectivity, and O – Opportunity,” Modi said.
On the security front, the Prime Minister stressed that terrorism and separatism remain major obstacles to peace and development. Referring to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, he said, “India has been bearing the brunt of terrorism for the last four decades. I express my gratitude to friendly countries who stood with us in this hour of grief.”
Speaking on connectivity, Modi reiterated India’s commitment to projects such as the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor, which he said would improve links with Afghanistan and Central Asia, boosting trade and building trust.
On the third pillar, Opportunity, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s initiatives during its SCO presidency in 2022–2023, which included promoting startups, digital inclusion, youth empowerment, innovation, and shared Buddhist heritage. He also proposed the creation of a Civilisational Dialogue Forum to showcase the rich cultural traditions of SCO nations.
Modi’s remarks reflected India’s active role in the SCO since becoming a full member in 2017, building on its earlier role as an observer since 2005. During its presidency, India launched several new cooperation areas such as Traditional Medicine, Science and Technology, and Environmental Protection.
On the sidelines of the summit, Modi shared a warm exchange with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. He also held bilateral talks with Xi on Sunday, where both leaders reaffirmed that India and China are “development partners, not rivals,” stressing the need for stability and cooperation in building a multipolar Asia. Modi is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Putin later on Monday.
The SCO, which comprises 10 member states including India, China, Russia, Pakistan, and several Central Asian nations, continues to grow in importance as a platform for regional security and economic cooperation.