Jaishankar lists 'terrorism, extremism and separatism' as three threats to cooperation at SCO summit in Pakistan

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a strong message at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Islamabad, in which he emphasized that if terrorism, extremism and separatism become a feature of activities across borders, trade, energy and Cooperation in areas such as connectivity is unlikely to flourish.

Jaishankar led the Indian delegation at the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) summit chaired by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He stressed that trust is important for cooperation and that if SCO member states move forward collectively, they can greatly benefit.

Highlights from Jaishankar's address at Pakistan SCO summit:

– Requirements for cooperation: Cooperation should be based on mutual respect, sovereign equality and recognition of territorial integrity and sovereignty.
– Challenges to cooperation: Cross-border activities characterized by terrorism, extremism and separatism hinder trade, energy flows, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges.

– Importance of trust: Trust is essential for cooperation; SCO member states must abide by the Charter, strengthen mutual trust, friendship and good neighborliness.

– Global Challenges: The world is facing conflicts, fallout from COVID-19, climate events, supply chain uncertainties, financial instability and debt challenges.

Jaishankar also highlighted the need for genuine partnership rather than a one-sided agenda and cautioned against global practices, especially in trade and transit. He stressed the importance of reaffirming commitment to the SCO Charter to realize the benefits of cooperation and integration.

The visit is Jaishankar's first visit to Pakistan in nine years, which is significant given the strained India-Pakistan relations. However, both countries have rejected the possibility of bilateral discussions during the summit.