The SCO was established with the primary goal of countering three evils of terrorism, separatism and extremism, which continue to remain a challenge. It comprises 10 members. In addition to India, they include Belarus, China, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
“The programme elements for the upcoming 25th SCO Summit in Tianjin include a welcome banquet dinner on the evening of August 31, and the main summit will be held on the next day — September 1. The Prime Minister is expected to hold some bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the SCO Summit,” Lal told reporters at a press briefing in New Delhi.
Bilateral meetings in ChinaResponding to a question whether there would be a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the SCO Summit, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the officials are still finalising the meetings.
“There will be a number of bilateral meetings that will be organised on the sidelines. We are still finalising those meetings and will keep you updated on the proceedings. Ahead of the meetings, it might be a bit forward of me to anticipate and say what will be discussed and what will not be discussed in the meetings,” Misri said.
Discussions on terrorism at SCO Summit
Responding to a question on what would be India’s approach towards terrorism at the SCO Summit, which Pakistan is also a part of, and whether there could be a joint declaration on the condemnation of terrorism and the Pahalgam terror attack at the SCO Summit, Lal that the text of the declaration is under finalisation.
“We are working with other members and partners to see that there should be a reiteration of the strong condemnation of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism. The text is under finalisation,” Lal stated.
First Published: Aug 26, 2025 2:06 PM IS
