Thu Jun 26 12:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:

**Tensions High as Indian and Pakistani Defense Ministers Attend SCO Meeting in China**

**Qingdao, China** – Defense Minister Rajnath Singh of India and his Pakistani counterpart, Khawaja Asif, attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) defense ministers’ meeting in Qingdao, China this week amid heightened tensions. This marked the first time the two ministers were in the same venue following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

Despite being present at the same forum, no bilateral talks or even formal greetings took place between Singh and Asif, illustrating the strained relationship between the two nations. The ministers entered the meeting hall separately and participated in a group photo session, but avoided any interaction.

Singh was greeted by Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun, and held bilateral talks with Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov and Belarusian Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin, focusing on strengthening defense and security cooperation.

Reports indicate that Asif appeared isolated throughout the event, standing apart with his delegation. The already tense atmosphere was exacerbated by the Pahalgam attack and India’s subsequent military action under “Operation Sindoor.” India has currently suspended diplomatic talks and even reconsidered the six-decade-old Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan due to the ongoing tensions.

During the summit, Singh delivered a strong condemnation of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, specifically mentioning the Lashkar-e-Taiba’s connection to the TRF and highlighting the success of “Operation Sindoor” as a warning against future acts of terror.

Furthermore, Singh refused to sign the SCO joint draft statement due to disagreements over the inclusion of Balochistan in the context of terrorism. Pakistan allegedly sought to blame external forces for unrest in Balochistan, while China and Pakistan were unwilling to reference the Pahalgam attack in the joint statement. India’s firm stance prevented the release of a joint statement or resolution after the meeting.

India accuses Pakistan of supporting instability in Balochistan, where local population is protesting for independence due to Pakistan’s oppressive policies.

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