External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar criticized Pakistan during his address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Islamabad on Wednesday. He stated that cross-border activities marked by extremism and separatism are unlikely to foster positive outcomes for bilateral trade and relations.

Jaishankar emphasized the importance of peace and stability for development, referencing the SCO Charter, which calls for a resolute stance against the "three evils" of terrorism, extremism, and separatism. He noted that such challenges hinder trade, energy cooperation, connectivity, and cultural exchanges.

While delivering India's national statement at the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, he highlighted that the fight against these threats is more essential than ever. He called for honest dialogue, trust, good neighborly relations, and adherence to the SCO Charter to enhance cooperation among member states.

He also pointed out that cooperation must be rooted in mutual respect, sovereignty, and genuine partnerships, rather than unilateral agendas. Jaishankar remarked that the SCO cannot progress if it selectively adopts global practices regarding trade and transit.

Additionally, he outlined India's global initiatives aimed at sustainability and holistic development, which include the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and the Mission LiFE advocating for sustainable lifestyles. He stressed the need for collaboration in the face of current global challenges, including conflicts with widespread repercussions and the developing world’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jaishankar congratulated Pakistan on its presidency of the SCO summit this year and expressed India's full support for a successful presidency. This visit marks the first trip by a senior Indian official to Pakistan in nearly a decade, although no bilateral talks are scheduled during this summit.