India highlights cooperation on security & tackle threats of terrorism and extremism as major SCO outcome

The 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek has concluded with 13 key outcomes. The outcomes cover counter-terrorism, climate action, energy, disaster management and digital cooperation.
 
The summit adopted the historic Bishkek Declaration, marking the SCO’s 25th anniversary. It also approved four MoUs and more than 20 decisions.
 
A major decision was to include English as an official SCO language. Leaders also agreed to establish a Universal Centre for Countering Security Threats.
 
The measures will strengthen cooperation against terrorism, extremism, organised crime and other transnational threats. They will also improve security information sharing.
 
Several decisions focus on tackling drug trafficking and synthetic drugs. These include stronger coordination among law enforcement agencies and a cooperation programme on combating drug addiction until 2030. The measures support India’s efforts against cross-border narcotics trafficking and narco-terrorism.
On climate and energy, SCO members agreed to enhance cooperation on energy conservation and efficiency. They also adopted a memorandum on combating climate change. These measures support India’s energy security and climate-resilient development goals.
 
The summit also adopted a statement on assistance to countries affected by emergencies. It will strengthen cooperation in disaster management and humanitarian assistance, an area where India has significant capabilities.
 
In the digital sector, members agreed to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence. The move will provide India an opportunity to share its digital and AI expertise and promote responsible and inclusive use of the technology.
 
An agreement on information cooperation will also promote institutional exchanges and help strengthen India’s engagement with the regional media space.
 
The Ministry of External Affairs said the outcomes give India a strategic platform to advance its positions on regional security, development and connectivity. They also strengthen India’s engagement with Central Asia and the wider Eurasian region.
 
The MEA said, addressing the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for a roadmap for the next 25 years. He stressed the need for concrete outcomes in the areas of security, connectivity and opportunity.
 
The two-day SCO Summit was held at Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan, from August 31 to September 1.