SCO members denounce Pahalgam, Khuzdar and Jaffar Express attacks

TIANJIN (Web Desk) – The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) leaders issued a joint statement on Monday condemning recent terrorist attacks in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam area, Pakistan’s Khuzdar district and on the Jaffar Express.

The statement reaffirmed that perpetrators, organisers and sponsors of such attacks must be held accountable.

The leaders also urged an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Palestine, stressing the importance of humanitarian access and a more active diplomatic role by the international community. According to the statement, Pakistan is now recognised as a “regional stabiliser” through its diplomatic efforts in the region.

The summit in Tianjin emphasised sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference as the fundamental principles of interstate relations. The leaders underlined that using terrorism for political or mercenary purposes is unacceptable and pledged collective action against all terrorist groups.

Afghanistan focus

On Afghanistan, the declaration stated that only a comprehensive and inclusive government could ensure long-term stability. It called for cross-border terrorist movements to be effectively countered, reiterating that all forms of terrorism must be fought without double standards. The leaders stressed that an Afghan government should be formed with the participation of all ethnic and political groups.

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The joint statement added that every nation has the right to independently choose its political, social and economic path. The SCO reaffirmed its commitment to the “Shanghai Spirit”, which underlines mutual trust, shared development and cooperation.

Condemnation of Iran strikes

The 2025 declaration condemned recent attacks on Iran, describing them as a clear violation of the country’s sovereignty. Leaders also called for the establishment of a security framework in Eurasia based on equality and indivisibility.

The SCO approved its Development Strategy until 2035, outlining long-term multilateral cooperation, particularly in security, trade and infrastructure.

Expanded cooperation

The member states agreed to intensify efforts against terrorism, separatism and extremism, while also enhancing collaboration on cybercrimes and border security. They reiterated support for the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and equal access to peaceful nuclear energy. Complete implementation of conventions on chemical and biological weapons was also endorsed.

The summit announced plans to establish an SCO Development Bank, boost energy cooperation, and promote a green industry roadmap. Expansion of regional transport corridors, including the North–South and East–West routes, received strong backing, alongside the launch of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway corridor.

The joint statement further committed to advancing cooperation in public health, emergency medical care, sports, culture and environmental protection. Leaders praised international conferences on glaciers, environment and sustainable development, highlighting their importance for regional resilience.