The recent virtual meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) highlighted several key points regarding the organisation’s objectives and priorities. During the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of combating cross-border terrorism and avoiding double standards in dealing with terrorist activities. This approach recognises that terrorism cannot be countered if some countries selectively support or tolerate certain terrorist groups while opposing others. Furthermore, the shared responsibility of understanding each other’s needs and resolving challenges through better cooperation and coordination is the need of the hour. The SCO’s importance lies in its role in regional security, economic cooperation, connectivity and diplomatic engagement. It serves as a platform for member states to address common security concerns, such as terrorism, separatism, and extremism, through intelligence sharing, joint exercises, and collaborative efforts. Economic cooperation within the SCO includes initiatives aimed at enhancing trade, investment, and connectivity among member states, which can contribute to regional development and stability.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation faces multiple challenges, and member countries need to address these issues and find mutual resolutions. Failure to resolve contentious issues can potentially undermine the relevance of the SCO as a regional organisation. Terrorism is a significant concern for India, and the Prime Minister rightly emphasised this during discussions at the SCO. All member countries have to take decisive action against terrorism, as it is important to put collective efforts into combating this threat. Consistent and unwavering measures against terrorism without any double standards must be in place. It is time for SCO countries to criticise nations that support and fund terrorism as state policy. Respecting international treaties regarding borders and territorial integrity is also a crucial issue within the SCO framework, particularly concerning the regional dynamics involving India, China, and Pakistan. The recent Indo-China standoff and India’s concerns regarding cross-border terrorism underline the significance of upholding these principles within the SCO. Preventing Afghanistan from once again becoming a hub for terrorism is another important responsibility of the SCO. Given the potential repercussions for regional security, it is important for the SCO member states to address this issue collectively. The SCO serves as a forum for addressing various issues, including security, counterterrorism, and regional stability. Through dialogue and collaborative efforts, the SCO can play a vital role in promoting peace and security in the region.
Despite all the differences among SCO member states, the importance of SCO cannot be undermined. The India-Russia-China axis, reinforced by the SCO framework, has the potential to deepen economic ties and cooperation between these countries. With their combined resources, technological capabilities, and market access, they can contribute to significant economic development and stability in the region. With a combined population of over 3 billion people and extensive resources, the SCO countries represent significant economic potential. The organisation facilitates trade, investment, and infrastructure development initiatives, creating opportunities for economic growth, development, and integration. This axis can also facilitate cooperation in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology transfer, and innovation, further boosting economic growth and regional integration.
The inclusion of Iran as a permanent member of the SCO adds strategic and economic significance to the organisation. Iran’s geographical location and access to the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean can provide landlocked SCO member states with easier and more efficient trade routes and access to global markets. This development strengthens the SCO’s potential as a game changer, fostering economic connectivity and regional integration.
In summary, India’s role within the SCO and its participation in the India-Russia-China axis, along with the addition of Iran, have the potential to transform not only Asia but also the world. The SCO has the potential to transmute the world order by fostering economic development, stability, and cooperation. Their collaboration can shape the future trajectory of the region and contribute to a more balanced and multipolar global order.
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