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Jaishankar Highlights India’s Vision at SCO Meeting in Islamabad
Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister, delivered the country’s national statement at the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad. Addressing the gathering, Jaishankar outlined India’s vision for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) amidst global challenges, emphasizing the need for collaboration and mutual respect among member states.
Counterterrorism as SCO’s Core Priority
Jaishankar underscored the SCO’s fundamental mission to combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism, emphasizing that these goals are more critical than ever in today’s turbulent geopolitical environment. He stressed the importance of maintaining honest dialogue, fostering trust, and upholding the SCO Charter. According to Jaishankar, the organization must remain resolute in its stance against the “three evils” of terrorism, separatism, and extremism to ensure regional stability.
Focus on Collaboration and Sovereign Equality
Jaishankar also highlighted the need for the SCO to adapt to the realities of globalization and the global power rebalancing. He called for cooperation grounded in mutual respect, sovereign equality, and adherence to principles like territorial integrity. He emphasized that progress cannot be achieved if SCO members selectively adopt global practices, particularly in areas like trade and transit. Jaishankar outlined the potential for collaboration in industrial cooperation, expanding labor markets, and supporting sectors like MSMEs, environmental protection, and climate action.
India’s Initiatives and Call for Reformed Multilateralism
Jaishankar noted the relevance of Indian-led initiatives, such as Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), women-led development, the International Solar Alliance (ISA), and Mission LiFE, among others, in shaping the future of the SCO. He also urged the organization to lead the charge in advocating for a more inclusive and accountable United Nations Security Council (UNSC) through reformed multilateralism, ensuring that global institutions remain effective and representative.
In closing, Jaishankar emphasized the need for the SCO to adhere to the principles of mutual interest and respect outlined in its Charter, urging members to embrace the responsibility of representing change on the global stage.
