West Asia crisis shows conflicts have global impact: Modi at SCO Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed leaders at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, highlighting how the crisis in West Asia demonstrates that conflicts can have global ramifications. The conflict, which began in February this year with US and Israeli attacks on Iran, has entered its sixth month with no resolution in sight.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is also attending the summit. Modi emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving all tensions and conflicts, rather than resorting to violence on the battlefield. He also spoke about the challenge of terrorism, stating that a comprehensive approach must be taken to dismantle the entire ecosystem of terror financing, recruitment, radicalization, and safe havens.

India has accused Pakistan of a terrorist attack in May last year, following a four-day military confrontation between the two nations. Modi stressed the need for robust and reliable connectivity, supporting initiatives that connect markets, facilitate trade, and open new avenues for growth. He called for respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, in line with the SCO Charter.

India's vision for the SCO includes three key pillars: security, connectivity, and opportunity. The PM highlighted the importance of people-to-people ties, emphasizing that the SCO's future should focus on creating tangible benefits for the people of the region.