Why Did SCO Nations Condemn the Pahalgam Terror Attack?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack by SCO nations.
- Call for justice against the perpetrators and sponsors.
- Emphasis on collective action to combat terrorism.
- Recognition of the importance of humanitarian values.
- The need to reject double standards in international relations.
Tianjin, Sep 1 (NationPress) The member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) have issued a strong condemnation of the terrorist attack that occurred on April 22 in Pahalgam, asserting that the perpetrators, organisers, and sponsors of such heinous acts must be held accountable.
In the Tianjin Declaration, which was presented by the Council of Heads of State of the SCO, all member nations expressed their heartfelt condolences and sympathy for the victims' families.
The declaration stated, “The Member States strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on 22 April 2025. They expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and those who were injured. Furthermore, they emphasized that the perpetrators, organisers, and sponsors of such attacks must be brought to justice.”
On that day, four heavily armed terrorists affiliated with The Resistance Front, a splinter group of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, opened fire on 26 civilians at the scenic Baisaran Valley in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
During the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the gathering, which included Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and highlighted the Pahalgam terror attack. He expressed his gratitude to “friends” who have stood with India while criticizing the double standards exhibited by certain nations that support terrorism.
He urged SCO member states to adopt a firm position against terrorism and work together to eliminate it.
“This attack was not only an assault on India's spirit but also a direct challenge to all nations that uphold humanitarian values. In such circumstances, we must question whether we should accept countries that openly support terrorism. We need to unite and declare that double standards in combating terrorism are unacceptable,” he asserted.
The member states reiterated their unwavering commitment to combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism, emphasizing the inappropriateness of using terrorist, separatist, and extremist groups for mercenary purposes.
They acknowledged the essential role of sovereign states and their competent authorities in addressing terrorist and extremist threats.
The SCO countries categorically condemned terrorism in all its forms, stressing that double standards in the fight against terrorism are “unacceptable”, and called upon the international community to unite against terrorism, including the cross-border movement of terrorists.
The Declaration also reflects the theme of “One Earth, One Family and One Future”, recognizing India’s initiatives.
Member states also commended the results of the 5th SCO Startup Forum (held in New Delhi from April 3-5, 2025) aimed at enhancing cooperation in scientific and technological advancements. They acknowledged the significant contributions made during the 20th meeting of the SCO Think Tank Forum that took place in New Delhi in May.
Additionally, they recognized the role of the SCO Study Centre at the Indian Council for World Affairs (ICWA) in promoting cultural and humanitarian exchanges.