India to Host First SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum by Year-End
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announces India will host the inaugural SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum to strengthen cultural ties and fight terrorism.
In a significant move to bolster cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding among member nations, India has announced it will host the inaugural SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum by the end of this year. The announcement was made by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
A Call for Cultural Unity
Addressing the gathering, Rajnath Singh extended a formal invitation to all SCO member countries to participate in this first-of-its-kind forum. The initiative is designed to strengthen cultural ties and foster a deeper sense of mutual understanding across the diverse nations that make up the organisation.
The Defence Minister highlighted the strategic and emotional importance of India's relationships within the region, specifically noting the long-standing friendship between India and Tajikistan, as well as the close bonds India shares with other Central Asian countries.
Reflecting on 25 Years of the SCO
During his speech, Singh looked back at the 25-year journey of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. He referenced the recent SCO Summit in Bishkek, where leaders gathered to review the organization's historical achievements and deliberate on the roadmap for its future.
He further emphasized the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has consistently called for concrete actions to enhance security, connectivity, and economic opportunities throughout the SCO region. Singh noted that this vision remains highly relevant for the Council of Heads of Government as they shape future policies.
A Hard Line Against Terrorism
While the forum focuses on civilisation and culture, the Defence Minister did not mince words regarding the security threats facing the region. He identified terrorism as one of the most severe obstacles to peace and development, detailing its devastating impact on society.
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.
Demanding an End to Double Standards
Singh called for a collective, uncompromising approach to eradicating the menace of terror. He specifically warned against the use of "double standards" in counter-terrorism efforts, insisting that there should be no sanctuary for those who fund or support terrorist activities.
He urged the member states to work together to firmly dismantle the entire ecosystem that allows terrorism to thrive, ensuring that those providing safe havens are held accountable.
Diplomatic Engagements in Dushanbe
The meeting saw the presence of several high-ranking officials, including Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. Beyond the main council sessions, Rajnath Singh engaged in bilateral discussions on the sidelines of the gathering.
His diplomatic outreach included meetings with:
- Qohir Rosulzoda, the Prime Minister of Tajikistan.
- Mohammad Reza Aref, the First Vice President of Iran.