India expects the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, to issue a strong condemnation of terrorism. The meeting, set for August 31 and September 1, will bring together Prime Minister Narendra Modi and leaders from China, Russia, Pakistan, and Central Asian countries.
At a briefing in New Delhi, senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs said terrorism, separatism, and extremism remain core challenges the SCO was created to address. “We are working with other members to ensure the summit declaration once again strongly condemns terrorism, including cross-border terrorism,” said Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West).
India has frequently raised concerns about Pakistan’s support for militant groups. The matter drew renewed attention after Operation Sindoor in May, when India targeted terror bases across the border following the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. While bilateral disputes are not formally discussed at the SCO, past declarations have included strong wording against terrorism.
Founded in 2001, the SCO has 10 members, including India, China, Russia, Pakistan, and Central Asian states. India joined in 2017 and hosted the presidency in 2023, where it pressed for cooperation on countering radicalisation and building cultural ties.
This year’s summit will also see Modi hold bilateral meetings with world leaders on the sidelines. It will be his first visit to China since the 2020 border clash. Officials said discussions may cover trade, security, and steps to ease relations, such as resuming direct flights and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
The program opens with a welcome banquet on August 31, followed by the main summit the next day. Alongside security, India is expected to highlight issues of trade, connectivity, the environment, and respect for sovereignty.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri also pointed to India’s growing ties with Japan in defence and space, citing work on the LUPEX lunar mission and naval technology.
