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‘Not acceptable to one country': MEA says SCO defence meet failed to reach consensus on terrorism
'India wanted concerns and terrorism reflected in the document, which was not acceptable to one particular country…,' said MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal read more
The Defence Ministers' meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) concluded without the adoption of a joint statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday, citing lack of consensus among member states.
Addressing a press briefing on Thursday, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that while the two-day meeting saw active participation, differences over certain key issues prevented a final agreement on the joint document.
#WATCH | Delhi | MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "...The Defence Minister participated in the defence ministers' meeting of the SCO. This meeting happened over two days and has concluded. They could not adopt a joint statement. Certain member countries could not reach… pic.twitter.com/RVkNTREkLz — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2025
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'They could not adopt a joint statement. Certain member countries could not reach consensus on certain issues, and hence, the document could not be finalised,' he said.
Jaiswal said India had pushed for the inclusion of strong language on terrorism and related concerns.
'India wanted concerns and terrorism reflected in the document, which was not acceptable to one particular country…,' he said referring to Pakistan.
Jaiswal said during the meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged the 11 participating countries to unite against terrorism 'in all its forms and manifestations.'
'He also reiterated the need to uphold that the perpetrators, organisers, financers, sponsors of reprehensible acts of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, need to be held accountable and brought to justice…,' added Jaiswal.
On Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's visit to the White House, Jaiswal said India had 'noted the visit' but declined to offer further comment.
#WATCH | Delhi | On Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's visit to the White House, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "... We have noted the visit. I have no further comment to make. As far as the India-US relationship is concerned, our partnership with the United States is… pic.twitter.com/ghbPwQTMjd — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2025
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'… We have noted the visit. I have no further comment to make,' he said.
Jaiswal said as far as the India-US relationship is concerned, our partnership is wide-ranging, grounded in shared democratic values and growing strategic convergence.
'A comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the United States continues to receive high-level attention and is manifested in sustained dialogue and cooperation across sectors: trade, critical technology, energy, defence and several other fields…,' the spokesperson added.
When asked about guidelines regarding visa issues in US, Jaiswal said India believes that all visa applications of Indian nationals should be treated on the basis of merit.
#WATCH | Delhi | On guidelines regarding visa issues in US, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "... Visa, and immigration matters pertain to sovereign functions of any country. But, we have seen the guidelines issued by the US Embassy, providing details of social media… pic.twitter.com/A3UBsT1shO — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2025
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'Visa, and immigration matters pertain to sovereign functions of any country. But, we have seen the guidelines issued by the US Embassy, providing details of social media identifiers in visa applications. But it is our belief that all visa applications of Indian nationals should be treated on the basis of merit. We remain engaged with the US side on all mobility issues and consular issues to ensure that the legitimate interests of Indian nationals are safeguarded…,' he said.
On diplomatic ties with Canada, Jaiswal said New Delhi and Ottawa are taking steps toward restoring full diplomatic representation, including the return of high commissioners to each other's capitals.
Responding to a question regarding the reinstatement of a High Commissioner in Canada, Jaiswal recalled the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.
#WATCH | Delhi | Responding to ANI's question on reinstatement of a High Commissioner in Canada, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "... We had issued a press release when we had the last meeting of PM Modi with Prime Minister Carney, on the sidelines of G7 in Kananaskis in… pic.twitter.com/eX4kKX6v0W — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2025
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'Both leaders then reaffirmed the importance of India-Canada ties based on shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law, and commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Both sides agreed to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, beginning with the early return of high commissioners to each other's capitals. That was what was agreed between the prime ministers. Both countries are now working on this particular matter…,' added Jaiswal.
With inputs from agencies
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