How Does Connectivity Without Respect for Sovereignty Affect Trust? PM Modi at SCO Summit

Tianjin, Sep 1 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his opening address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in Tianjin on Monday, emphasized that connectivity efforts that disregard sovereignty ultimately "lose trust and meaning".

"India has consistently maintained that robust connectivity not only boosts visibility but also cultivates trust and development. In this context, we are advancing projects like the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor. These initiatives will enhance our connectivity with Afghanistan and Central Asia. We believe that every connectivity endeavor should be inclusive and honor regional identities," stated PM Modi.

"This sentiment is echoed in the SCO Charter -- that connectivity which ignores sovereignty ultimately loses trust and meaning," he added.

These comments arise amid the ongoing discussions surrounding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that traverses through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Highlighting opportunity as a key pillar of India’s vision for the SCO, the Prime Minister remarked that during India's chairmanship in 2023, "new energy and ideas have gained traction".

"Our goal was to extend SCO beyond governmental boundaries -- to link ordinary citizens, youth, scholars, and startups, fostering their progress together," he expressed.

To bolster cultural connections within the organization, PM Modi proposed the establishment of a 'Civilisation Dialogue Forum', which would serve as a global platform to showcase our ancient civilizations, cultures, traditions, and literature.

Reaffirming India's developmental philosophy, he stated, "Today, India is advancing with the mantra of Reform, Perform, and Transform. We aim to convert every challenge into an opportunity. Whether it concerns Covid, global challenges, economic crises, or other hurdles, we strive to turn each challenge into an opportunity."

The Prime Minister highlighted that India’s developmental model is not solely focused on national growth but also on enhancing regional cooperation.

"We are committed to advancing this ambition. These efforts are generating new resources not just for national development but for inter-state collaboration as well. I invite all of you to join us on this journey of India’s development," he urged.

Welcoming the SCO's evolution to tackle modern challenges, PM Modi noted, "It is encouraging to see the SCO adapting to contemporary needs. Four new centers will be established to address issues like organized crime, drug trafficking, and cybersecurity. We embrace this reformative mindset."