In a fiery address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the recent Pahalgam terror attack as a “heinous assault” not just on India but on the very essence of humanity. Speaking before an audience that included Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Modi issued a bold call for the world to reject double standards in combating terrorism, urging a united front against this global menace.

“This barbaric attack in Pahalgam was a direct challenge to every nation and individual who values human dignity,” Modi declared, his voice resonating with resolve. Without directly naming Pakistan, he posed a piercing question: “Can we accept some countries openly supporting terrorism?” The prime minister’s remarks underscored India’s decades-long struggle against terrorism, which has claimed countless lives, leaving mothers grieving and children orphaned. “For over 40 years, India has borne the scars of terrorism. The Pahalgam attack was a disgusting reminder of this scourge,” he said, emphasizing the need for collective action.

Modi stressed that the SCO must unequivocally oppose terrorism in all its forms, stating, “Double standards on terrorism are unacceptable. It is our moral duty to humanity to stand united.” He highlighted the pivotal role of the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) in countering terrorism, separatism, and extremism—threats that undermine peace, prosperity, and stability worldwide. “RATS can be a game-changer in our fight against these evils,” he asserted.

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Expressing gratitude to nations that stood in solidarity with India after the Pahalgam attack, Modi also touched on broader global challenges. He emphasized the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity in connectivity initiatives, warning that bypassing these principles erodes trust. “Connectivity must foster mutual respect, not division,” he noted.

Modi further called for reforms in global institutions, particularly the United Nations, to better reflect the needs of the modern world. “Outdated frameworks suffocate the aspirations of the Global South, and this is an injustice to future generations,” he said, advocating for a stronger voice for developing nations.

Reflecting on India’s progress, Modi highlighted the nation’s transformative journey under the mantra of “reform, perform, transform.” He cited India’s resilience in turning challenges like the Covid-19 pandemic and global economic instability into opportunities for growth. “India’s development model is a beacon for others, showing how challenges can be transformed into progress,” he said.

In closing, Modi urged SCO members to deepen cooperation, strengthen anti-terrorism efforts, and champion global reforms to create a more equitable and secure world. His speech was a clarion call for unity, action, and accountability in the face of humanity’s greatest threats.

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