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

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan, emphasizing that conflicts in one region can have far-reaching global consequences. Speaking on the ongoing crisis in West Asia, Modi warned that such conflicts can disrupt global energy security, maritime trade, and supply chains. He stressed that resolving all tensions and conflicts must be achieved through dialogue and diplomacy, not by force.

Modi also highlighted the impact of the crisis on the Global South, where the brunt of the consequences is felt. He reiterated India's stance that conflicts should be resolved diplomatically, not through military action. The Prime Minister addressed the issue of terrorism, emphasizing that it remains a global challenge that requires a comprehensive approach to dismantle the entire ecosystem of terror financing, recruitment, radicalization, and safe havens. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was present during this discussion.

Modi underlined the need for robust and reliable connectivity, supporting initiatives that connect markets and facilitate trade. He emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations while advancing these efforts. India wants access to Central Asia through Iran, as Pakistan does not allow overland transit to the Central Asian region.

Recalling India's vision for the SCO, which focuses on security, connectivity, and opportunity, Modi stressed the importance of translating cooperation into tangible results over the next 25 years. He urged the countries to ensure that the benefits of SCO cooperation directly reach their people, with people-to-people ties at the heart of their partnership.

Modi also highlighted the importance of youth engagement within the SCO and launched initiatives such as the Start-up Forum, Young Authors' Conclave, and Young Scientists' Forum. He proposed the SCO Civilizational Dialogue Forum, which will have its first session in India this year. The Prime Minister concluded his speech by quoting Kyrgyzstan's great litterateur Chingiz Aitmatov, emphasizing the need to focus on shared opportunities and a people-driven partnership. Modi reiterated India's commitment to contributing to the common journey of the SCO family.