‘Double standards’ on terrorism unacceptable: SCO

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states have firmly rejected the notion of double standards in the battle against terrorism, calling for international cooperation to combat the issue. In a joint declaration issued at a meeting in Bishkek, the SCO's Council of Heads of State, which includes Russia, China, India, Pakistan, Iran, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and the Kyrgyz Republic, expressed deep concern over the situation in West Asia and condemned the US military strikes on Iran.

These strikes have led to numerous civilian casualties and severe economic damage, violating international law and the UN Charter. The SCO member states emphasized their support for Iran's sovereignty and territorial integrity and advocated for resolving regional conflicts through political and diplomatic means. They also expressed condolences over the passing of Iranian Supreme Leader Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

The SCO stressed the importance of countering the use of the internet for terrorist, separatist, and extremist purposes and called for strengthening coordination on international information security and combating new types of crime. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism, and condemned attempts to exploit such groups for selfish interests.