RAJNATH: PEACE CANNOT COEXIST WITH TERRORISM

Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday told Defence Ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states that “peace and prosperity cannot coexist with terrorism.”

“Terrorism is the most serious threat to international peace and security,” he said at the annual meeting of the Defence Ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

He pointed out that any act of terror and support to such acts, including cross border terrorism, is a crime against humanity. He reaffirmed India’s resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

Singh said India is committed to multilateralism, “in which international laws must be respected, legitimate interests of partner countries are recognised and common good is upheld to build a durable framework of regional collaboration.”

He said that the geo-strategic location of India makes it both a Eurasian land power as well as a stakeholder in the IndoPacific. “Our intent and aspirations are therefore focused towards prosperity and development of the entire region,” said Singh.

“We affirm this intent through our national policy of security and growth for all in the region, commonly known by the acronym ‘SAGAR’. Security and stability are most essential components to create conducive environment for growth and economic development of the region and our respective nations,” Singh said.