Narendra Modi says "robust and reliable connectivity" needed for economic links

Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation gathering in Bishkek, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the West Asian conflict shows that regional wars have global fallout, threatening energy security, sea-borne trade and supply chains. He called for diplomacy rather than force. On terrorism, he told SCO members to eliminate the whole infrastructure that finances, recruits, indoctrinates and shelters militants, and to avoid double standards; countries that harbor terrorists, he added, need to understand that terrorism is never a strategic benefit. Addressing economic links, Modi backed projects that connect markets and boost commerce, but said respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity is essential. He also urged streamlining customs, adopting digital paperwork and improving logistics, and set out a future built on security, connectivity and opportunity.