Sushma talks of threat of terrorism, need for developing security-related cooperation at SCO summit

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, while addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Heads of State Summit 2014 on Friday, expressed concern over the growing incidents of terrorism, both in India and abroad. Further, she conveyed the keenness to develop security-related cooperation with the SCO states.

Swaraj said, "India has long been a victim of terrorism. We are acutely aware of the threat that its perpetrators pose to our people, as also to our common region. We are seeing different theaters getting interconnected through terror networks and a globalization of the supply chain of ideology, radicalization, recruitment, training and financing of terrorism. This requires a resolute and more comprehensive response from the international community."

"We are of the firm view that only multilateral efforts and integrated actions can help effectively counter these negative forces including the related evils of drug trafficking and small arms proliferation. In this context, we are keen to deepen our security-related cooperation with the SCO in general and with the Regional Counter-Terrorism Structure, in particular," she added.

Expressing concern about the delicate political situation in Afghanistan, Swaraj said, "India is concerned about the security challenges which may emanate from the developing situation in Afghanistan. India strongly believes that Afghanistan can successfully complete the security, political and economic transitions and regain its historical place as a hub for regional trade and transit routes. However, at this time of delicate transition, the international community must stand united to support Afghanistan to preserve the progress it has made in the last decade against terrorism and related threats to its national wellbeing."

Swaraj also talked about her recent visit to Afghanistan and the talks she held with Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai, saying, "I had the privilege of visiting Afghanistan two days ago and had fruitful discussions with President Karzai. I can see that Afghanistan aspires to bring peace and prosperity to its people, just like every other SCO country does. India remains committed to assisting Afghanistan in building its capacity for democratic government, security and economic development. We see the SCO not only as an important body that can offer a credible alternative regional platform to discuss the challenges related to Afghanistan, but also a strong multilateral force that can become a partner in its progress."

Swaraj also talked of the threat that the Islamic State (IS - formerly the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) posed to the region, saying, "This Summit of the SCO is taking place at a crucial juncture in global politics, with many nations facing violence and conflict. We need to reflect collectively on all these events of deep geo-political significance. India is deeply concerned at the ongoing conflict in Iraq and Syria. We need to evolve a common strategy to safeguard the borders in Afghanistan and neighbouring countries from any spillover effect of these conflicts."

Earlier on Friday, Swaraj formally submitted an application for full membership to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on behalf of India at the summit.