Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, underscored the critical need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve international conflicts.
He firmly stated, “War can never be the answer to war,” emphasizing India’s unwavering commitment to peaceful resolutions amidst rising global tensions.
Singh highlighted that military confrontation only perpetuates cycles of violence, stressing that enduring solutions emerge solely through diplomatic engagement. He also called for enhanced cooperation among SCO member states to combat terrorism, drug trafficking, and organized crime, warning these threats undermine regional stability, trade, and investment.
“Terrorism not only causes the loss of innocent lives but also disrupts investment and commerce. It radicalises society and deprives our youth of the opportunities they deserve,” Singh asserted. He advocated for a unified approach against terrorism, urging the dismantling of its entire support ecosystem, including financiers and those providing safe havens. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar was also present.
On economic cooperation, Singh backed the Action Plan for 2026–2030, emphasizing that its success hinges on practical improvements in cross-border trade, market access, faster customs clearance, and reliable payment systems. He also highlighted India’s historical ties with Central Asia, citing the spread of Buddhism as a testament to these enduring connections. On the sidelines, Singh held bilateral discussions with Tajikistan’s Prime Minister Qohir Rosulzoda and Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref.