External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that the world must show “zero tolerance” towards terrorism. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s Council of Heads of Government meeting in Moscow, he also called upon the organisation to make reforms in its working process.Addressing the gathering, Jaishankar said, “We must never forget that the SCO was founded to combat the three evils of terrorism, separatism, and extremism. These threats have become even more serious over the years that have passed. It is imperative that the world displays zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. There can be no justification, no looking away, and no whitewashing.”The EAM further pointed, “As India has demonstrated, we have the right to defend our people against terrorism — and we will exercise it.”He also invited the organisation to make new reforms. “In conclusion, India believes that the SCO must adapt to the changing global landscape, develop an expanded agenda, and reform its working methods. We will contribute positively and fully to these objectives.”Jaishankar made these remarks during a three-day visit to Russia that began on Monday. He arrived in Moscow to attend the SCO Heads of State Council meeting and hold a series of high-level talks ahead of President Vladimir Putin’s expected visit to New Delhi early next month.During his stay, he met Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov for discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues. According to state-run TASS, their conversation covered cooperation through the SCO, BRICS, the UN and the G20.On Tuesday, Jaishankar represented Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, which President Putin is expected to address.Jaishankar said that the relationship between India and Russia has consistently acted as a stabilising factor internationally. “Its growth and evolution is not only in our mutual interest but also in that of the world,” he said.Russia remains one of India’s closest and longest-standing partners, and both sides are expecting substantial outcomes from President Putin’s upcoming December visit aimed at further strengthening their strategic ties.