NEW DELHI: There can be no justification, no looking away, and no whitewashing of terrorism, said external affairs minister S Jaishankar addressing SCO heads of govt meeting in Russia. As India has demonstrated, he added, it has the right to defend its people against terrorism and will exercise it.In the presence of Pakistan, which is a member state, Jaishankar again reminded the Eurasian bloc that SCO was founded to combat three evils of terrorism, separatism and extremism. “These threats have become even more serious in the years that have passed. It is imperative that the world display zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” he said.Jaishankar also said India believes that the SCO must “adapt to the changing global landscape, develop an expanded agenda, and reform its working methods”. He emphasised on the prevailing economic situation globally and the importance of fostering greater cultural ties in the influential bloc.”We assess the global economic situation to be particularly uncertain and volatile currently. Supply side risks have been aggravated by demand side complexities. There is consequently an urgent requirement to de-risk and diversify. This is best done by as many of us, forging the widest possible economic links,” he said.For that to happen, it is essential that this process be “fair, transparent and equitable”, external affairs minister said. “India’s endeavours to conclude free trade agreements with many of us here are relevant,” Jaishankar said.
