During a meeting on Tuesday, leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) emphasized that “double standards” in the fight against terrorism are intolerable. They urged the global community to intensify efforts to combat terrorism, particularly regarding the transnational movement of terrorists.
This statement was part of the ‘Bishkek Declaration’ adopted by member nations, including India, Pakistan, Iran, Russia, China, and several Central Asian countries. The declaration holds significance as India has consistently accused Pakistan of facilitating cross-border terrorism.
In regard to terrorism, the joint declaration concluded at the SCO leaders’ summit in Bishkek affirmed, “Member States, reiterating their strong commitment to countering terrorism, separatism, and extremism, stress the inappropriateness of exploiting terrorist and extremist groups for personal gain. They acknowledge the primary responsibility of sovereign nations and their authorities in addressing terrorist and extremist threats.”
“The member states find efforts to undermine the authority and institutions of SCO nations to be unacceptable. Such actions contravene international law and compromise the principles of sovereign equality and non-interference in domestic matters as outlined in the UN Charter,” the declaration added.
“Member States categorically condemn all forms of terrorism, assert that ‘double standards’ in the fight against terrorism are inadmissible, and call upon the international community to unite against terrorism, including the cross-border movement of terrorists. They emphasize the UN’s pivotal role in this effort, advocating for full implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in line with the UN Charter and international law principles,” the declaration stated.
Concerning the ongoing conflict between the US-Israel and Iran, which has persisted for over six months, the Bishkek Declaration expressed, “Member states voice deep concern regarding the situation in the Middle East and around Iran. They reaffirm the SCO’s previous condemnation of military actions within Iran, which have caused considerable civilian casualties and significant harm to the nation’s economy.”
“These actions breach international law and the UN Charter, posing severe threats to global peace, security, and stability,” it continued, highlighting the delicate position of India, which maintains strong ties with Israel but is not accustomed to overtly criticizing the US and Israel.
“Member States extend their heartfelt condolences to the Iranian people and government over the passing of Supreme Leader Seyyed Ali Khamenei, as well as to the families of the deceased,” the declaration noted.
It further stated, “Member States reaffirm their support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iran and advocate for resolving the conflict exclusively through diplomatic and political channels. They welcome all efforts aimed at de-escalating regional tensions.”
In light of the skepticism from the US and other Western nations towards the SCO, the Bishkek Declaration clarified that “the SCO is not a military-political entity and is not aimed at opposing other nations or international organizations. The SCO operates on principles of openness, non-interference, equality, and mutual respect.”
Against the backdrop of two ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, the declaration remarked, “Member States recognize that the world is undergoing significant geopolitical, socio-economic, and technological transformations. The international landscape remains challenging, characterized by ongoing conflicts, energy and food security issues, global market volatility, and climate change.”
Both conflicts have exacerbated energy and food security concerns due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and the Black Sea, affecting both developing and developed nations economically. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted these issues in his address at the SCO.
Regarding the UN Charter and international law, the declaration affirmed, “Member States reiterate their steadfast commitment to the universal principles of international law as established in the UN Charter and stress the necessity of reinforcing its role as a guarantor of global peace and security, sustainable development, and the creation of a democratic, equitable multipolar world order. They are increasingly contributing to efforts aimed at enhancing the global order.” This assertion is particularly relevant in light of Russia’s actions in Ukraine and China’s assertive posture towards its neighbors.
In response to Western criticisms of human rights situations in China, Russia, and Iran, the declaration stated, “Member States stress the interconnectedness and indivisibility of all human rights and reiterate the universal obligation to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms. They oppose the application of ‘double standards’ in human rights issues and reject interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states.”
Indian officials highlighted that the SCO reiterated the concept of “One Earth, One Family, One Future” to foster dialogue, a phrase that was prominent during the 2023 G20 Summit in Delhi.
“Considering the perspectives of member states, they reaffirmed the importance of initiatives aimed at fostering cooperation to cultivate a new type of international relations that values mutual respect, justice, equality, and beneficial collaboration, as well as developing a shared vision for a community with a collective destiny for humanity and promoting dialogue around the idea of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’,” the declaration concluded.
