Leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Monday issued a joint declaration strongly condemning recent terrorist attacks in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, Pakistan’s Khuzdar district, and on the Jaffar Express.
They stressed that perpetrators, organisers, and sponsors of such attacks must be brought to justice. The statement also urged an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Palestine, called for humanitarian access, and pressed the international community to play a more active diplomatic role. Pakistan, the declaration noted, is now recognised as a “regional stabiliser” for its peace and diplomatic initiatives.
The Tianjin summit reaffirmed sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference as the foundation of interstate relations. It condemned the use of terrorism for political or mercenary purposes and pledged united action against all terrorist groups.
Afghanistan
On Afghanistan, the leaders emphasised that long-term stability required a comprehensive and inclusive government with representation from all ethnic and political groups. They called for stronger action to prevent cross-border terrorist movements, stressing that all forms of terrorism must be fought without double standards.
Iran strikes
The declaration condemned recent attacks on Iran, describing them as violations of sovereignty. It also called for the creation of an inclusive Eurasian security framework built on equality and indivisibility.
Long-term strategy
The SCO approved its Development Strategy 2035, charting long-term cooperation in security, trade, and infrastructure. Member states pledged to strengthen joint action against terrorism, separatism, extremism, cybercrime, and border threats. They also reaffirmed support for the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, peaceful use of nuclear energy, and implementation of conventions on chemical and biological weapons.
Economic and regional cooperation
Leaders endorsed the establishment of an SCO Development Bank, deeper energy cooperation, and a green industry roadmap. They backed the expansion of regional transport corridors, including the North–South and East–West routes, and supported the launch of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway.
Broader collaboration
The declaration further committed to advancing cooperation in healthcare, emergency response, sports, culture, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Leaders praised global initiatives on glaciers and environmental resilience, highlighting their significance for the region.