(MENAFN- KNN India)
New Delhi, Jul 5 (KNN) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the extended format meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State in Astana, Kazakhstan.
His remarks were delivered by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who attended the summit on Modi's behalf.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the potential of the 'Make in India' initiative to contribute to global economic growth and democratisation.
He stressed the importance of creating multiple, reliable, and resilient supply chains, citing lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Modi showcased India's contributions to the SCO's economic agenda, mentioning the establishment of mechanisms such as the SCO Start-up Forum and Special Working Group on Start-up and Innovation.
He noted India's robust start-up ecosystem, comprising 130,000 start-ups and 100 unicorns, offering valuable experience to other member states.
The Prime Minister emphasised the transformative role of technology in development and security, calling for increased trust and transparency in the digital era.
He announced India's initiative for a new SCO Working Group on Traditional Medicine, referencing the World Health Organisation's Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Gujarat.
Modi reiterated India's commitment to international cooperation in education and capacity building.
Highlighting India's achievements in digital public infrastructure and financial inclusion, the Prime Minister suggested potential for expanded international cooperation among SCO members and partners.
He advocated for new connectivity linkages that respect sovereignty and territorial integrity while ensuring non-discriminatory trade and transit rights.
Modi mentioned the recent long-term agreement between India and Iran on the Chabahar port, emphasising its significance for landlocked Central Asian states and India-Eurasia commerce.
He reaffirmed India's historical ties with Afghanistan and its ongoing commitment to the country's development and humanitarian needs.
Lastly, Prime Minister Modi supported granting English the status of a third official language within the SCO to facilitate better communication as the organisation expands.
He concluded by expressing India's commitment to deepening cooperation with all partners as a 'Vishwa Bandhu' (friend of the world) and extended best wishes to the upcoming Chinese presidency of the SCO.
The SCO summit in Astana marks a significant diplomatic event for the regional organisation, with India having joined as a full member in June 2017.
(KNN Bureau)
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