Narendra Modi says "we cannot remain confined to an action-reaction approach" on counterterrorism

At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek on Tuesday, India's prime minister called on member nations to take a broader, coordinated stance against terrorism rather than responding only after attacks. Speaking in front of Pakistani and Chinese leaders, Narendra Modi argued that states that back militant groups and shelter terrorists must be held accountable, and that counterterrorism efforts should target funding, recruitment, radicalization, and havens. Observers read the remarks as aimed at Pakistan. He also said the West Asia crisis shows regional conflicts have global effects, and warned that infrastructure projects must respect national sovereignty, an apparent reference to China's Belt and Road Initiative. His comments centered on turning the bloc's security, connectivity, and opportunity agenda into action.