SCO leaders term 'double standards' in counter-terrorism 'unacceptable', condemn strikes on Iran

Bishkek: SCO adopts declaration rejecting 'double standards' in fight against terrorism

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states have called the "double standards" in the fight against terrorism "unacceptable," according to the Bishkek Declaration adopted after the meeting of the Council of Heads of State in the Kyrgyz capital. The joint statement was signed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and other leaders of the SCO, as reported by The Economic Times.

The declaration calls on the international community to "combat terrorism, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, with the UN playing a central role," urging full implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. The SCO comprises Russia, China, India, Pakistan, Iran, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and the Kyrgyz Republic.

Deep concern over Iran and West Asia

Member states expressed "deep concern over developments in the Middle East and around Iran," according to the declaration cited by The Indian Express. They reiterated the SCO's previously stated position "condemning military strikes on the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which have resulted in numerous civilian casualties and significant damage to the country's economy."

The declaration further stated that "such actions violate the principles and norms of international law and the UN Charter and create serious risks to international peace, security and stability," as reported by The Indian Express. It also expressed "sincere condolences to the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran on the tragic death of Supreme Leader Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and to the families of the victims." The Economic Times also reported the SCO member states condoled the death of the Iranian Supreme Leader.

Broader principles and governance reforms

The declaration, as reported by The Indian Express, stated that the SCO is not a military-political bloc and noted that the world has entered an era of profound geopolitical, socioeconomic, and technological change. It also said that ongoing conflicts have led to energy and food security challenges due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and disruption in the Black Sea.

Member states reaffirmed their commitment to the universal norms and principles of international law enshrined in the UN Charter. The declaration also emphasized "the indivisibility, interdependence and interrelatedness of all human rights" and opposed the application of "double standards," particularly in matters of human rights. It further stated that attempts to discredit government bodies and structures of SCO member states are unacceptable, as they contradict international law and undermine the principles of sovereign equality and non-interference in internal affairs.

The member states also expressed support for the reform and improvement of the system of global governance and regulation, as part of their call for a more just and democratic international order.

Looking ahead

The Bishkek Declaration announced that the SCO presidency will pass to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, where the next meeting of the Council of Heads of State will be convened in 2027, as reported by The Indian Express. Indian officials noted that the SCO reaffirmed the idea of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future' for developing dialogue, according to The Indian Express.