Terror and Peace Cannot Co-Exist: Rajnath Singh Calls for Unified Global Action at SCO Meet

Qingdao/Hyderabad, June 26 (Maxim News): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a powerful address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting held in Qingdao, China, where he called for collective and decisive global action against terrorism and the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) in the hands of non-state actors.

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“Peace and Terror Cannot Co-Exist,” Says Singh

Rajnath Singh stated firmly that peace and prosperity cannot coexist with terrorism, underlining that radicalisation, extremism, and a growing trust deficit are the most pressing challenges confronting the region today.

“The root cause of many of our regional issues lies in increasing radicalisation and terrorism,” Singh said, adding, “Nations that support or shelter terrorism for political gains must be held accountable.”

He stressed that cross-border terrorism, often used as an instrument of state policy, must be unequivocally condemned. “There should be no place for double standards when it comes to fighting terrorism,” he asserted.

India’s Firm Stand on Counter-Terrorism

Rajnath reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, citing past actions that demonstrated India’s resolve. He declared that epicentres of terrorism are no longer safe havens and warned that India would not hesitate to defend itself when provoked.

Warning on Use of Modern Tech by Terrorists

Singh also warned against the misuse of modern technology by terror outfits, especially the use of drones to smuggle weapons and narcotics. He urged SCO nations to collaborate more closely to counter emerging threats such as cyber-attacks, hybrid warfare, and the weaponization of digital platforms.

“In today’s interconnected world, threats transcend borders. Only through transparency, mutual trust, and global collaboration can we ensure true regional security,” Singh emphasized.

Remembering the Pahalgam Attack

In a poignant moment, the Defence Minister recalled the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 innocent tourists were killed. He linked the attack to The Resistance Front, an affiliate of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), stressing the importance of naming and confronting state-supported terror networks.

SCO’s Role in Combating Radicalisation

Singh praised the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) for its coordination in counter-radicalisation efforts, and referred to the joint statement issued during India’s SCO chairmanship focused on Countering Radicalisation, Separatism, and Extremism.

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