Singh urges SCO to reject double standards on terrorism

India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged Shanghai Cooperation Organisation members to collectively dismantle the ecosystem of terrorism and reject double standards in responding to it, addressing the group’s Council of Heads of Government in Dushanbe on October 20. Singh said terrorism threatens peace and development, costs innocent lives, disrupts investment and commerce, and deprives young people of opportunities. He called for action against those who finance or support terrorists or provide them safe havens. His remarks were statements of India’s position at the meeting, rather than independent findings about the allegations he raised. Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar was present during Singh’s address, according to reports. One account said Dar sat opposite Singh and cited a video shared by Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry showing both officials at the same table. The reporting did not establish that Dar responded to Singh’s remarks. The meeting brought together representatives of SCO member countries for discussions on regional cooperation. Singh was representing India at the 25th meeting of the council, which focused on areas including trade,...