Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Dushanbe, Tajikistan on October 20, 2026, calling for concerted efforts by SCO Member States to dismantle the entire ecosystem of terrorism, which he described as one of the gravest threats to peace and development. Singh stated that terrorism results in loss of innocent lives, disrupts investment and commerce, radicalizes societies, and deprives youth of opportunities, emphasizing that there can be no justification for terrorism, no double standards in addressing it, and no place for those who finance, support, or provide safe havens to terrorists.
Singh recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's deliberations at the SCO Summit in Bishkek in August-September 2026, which underlined the need for concrete steps on security, connectivity, and opportunity. He underscored India's belief that economic engagement should be inclusive and mutually beneficial for all Member States, and that the SCO must remain efficient and steadfast in its adherence to principles of sovereign equality, consensus, and mutual respect. Singh emphasized the need to build consensus and translate it into concrete action to address the uncertain global economic environment marked by geopolitical tensions, trade and supply chain disruptions, energy and food security concerns, and emerging technological divides.
The Defence Minister stressed the need to strengthen resilient supply chains, facilitate trade and investment, and leverage technology to drive development, reaffirming India's support for the adoption of an Action Plan for the Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation Programme for 2026-2030. He welcomed decisions taken at the SCO Summit in Bishkek to establish the Universal Centre in Tashkent and the Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe as permanent bodies of the Organisation, noting their effectiveness would depend on efficient coordination and timely execution of tasks.
On connectivity, Singh stated that India supports initiatives that link markets, facilitate trade and create new avenues for development, specifically mentioning that initiatives such as the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chabahar Port can contribute significantly to connecting Central Asia with broader markets. He stressed that connectivity must be based on consultation and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, adding that projects not founded on these principles will not be sustainable. Singh emphasized the need to move beyond physical connectivity by simplifying customs procedures, promoting digital documentation, improving logistics, and adopting interoperable digital solutions to reduce business costs across the region.
Singh highlighted India's Digital Public Infrastructure which has transformed public service delivery and enhanced financial inclusion, the country's large start-up ecosystem, and emphasis on women-led development. He also mentioned India's global initiatives including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission LiFE promoting sustainable lifestyles, and Global Biofuel Alliance fostering cleaner energy solutions.
The meeting reviewed progress in multilateral economic and trade cooperation among SCO Member States and discussed measures to strengthen cooperation in transport, finance, digital economy, and social development. The Heads of Delegation adopted the Joint Communiqué of the 25th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government, including the SCO budget for 2027, relevant financial and administrative decisions, and the PMTEC Action Plan for 2026-2030.