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24th SCO Summit

Why in News?

• India recently participated in the 24th meeting of the Council of Heads of States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Astana, Kazakhstan. During the summit, India engaged in bilateral discussions with other SCO member countries.

Key Highlights of the 24th SCO Summit

• New Membership: Belarus joined as the 10th member of the SCO, with India aiming to strengthen ties through discussions with Belarusian officials.
• Astana Declaration: The summit in Astana saw the adoption of the Astana Declaration, along with approval for 25 strategic agreements covering various sectors like energy, security, trade, finance, and information security.
• SCO Development Strategy: Members collectively adopted the SCO Development Strategy until 2035, focusing on combating terrorism, separatism, extremism, anti-drug strategies, energy cooperation, economic development, and cooperation in protected areas and eco-tourism.

Key Issues Addressed by India at the SCO Summit, 2024 

• Rising Tensions and Global Concerns: India highlighted the need for global cooperation amidst ongoing conflicts and rising tensions worldwide, emphasizing the importance of finding common ground.
• Combatting Terrorism: India stressed the significance of combating cross-border terrorism, terrorism financing, and youth radicalization, advocating for the use of mechanisms like the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure of the SCO for coordination.
• Addressing Climate Change: India reiterated its commitment to reducing emissions and building climate-resilient infrastructure, proposing the use of platforms like the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure for sustainable development.
• Promoting Connectivity and Infrastructure: India emphasized the significance of robust connectivity for economic development, highlighting projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and the INSTC Multimode Transit Route.
• Harnessing Technology for Societal Progress: India emphasized utilizing technology for societal welfare, including cooperation within the SCO on AI initiatives.
• Cultural Engagement with SCO: India stressed the role of people-to-people diplomacy in enhancing cooperation among SCO countries, exemplified by events like the SCO Millet Food Festival and SCO Film Festival.

Challenges Associated with SCO 

• Geopolitical Challenges: The relevance of the SCO is questioned due to differences among member countries in the current global scenario.
• China-Pakistan-Russia Angle: India faces challenges due to the presence of China and Pakistan in the SCO, impacting its ability to assert itself.
• Expansion: The original mandate of the SCO may weaken as new members introduce their priorities.
• Counter Terrorism: SCO has faced challenges in countering terrorism effectively, especially in regions like the Golden Crescent.
• Anti-West Image: SCO's historical anti-Western stance poses challenges for India's partnerships with Western nations.

Way Forward:

• Adressing Geopolitical Challenges: India emphasizes global and regional cooperation based on the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
• Mutual Cooperation: SCO members need to collaborate on various issues while setting aside bilateral conflicts.
• Strengthening Counter Terrorism Mechanism: India advocates for reinforcing the SCO's focus on counter-terrorism and radicalism.
• Evolution of Organisation: SCO should evolve to meet the region's changing needs and avoid becoming outdated.