Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Meeting: India’s Strategic Refusal
24.06.2025
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Meeting: India’s Strategic Refusal
Context:
In a recent SCO meeting hosted by China, India refused to sign the final joint statement.
About the News:
- India declined to sign the SCO joint declaration.
This decision was based on the exclusion of India's key security concerns. - The statement focused only on Balochistan attacks.
Ignoring Indian concerns like Pahalgam highlighted selective acknowledgment of terrorism. - NSA Ajit Doval and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended.
Their presence underscored India’s active involvement despite disagreement.
Significance of SCO
- Strategic Security Platform
SCO provides a joint mechanism to tackle terrorism, extremism, and separatism, enhancing regional stability through military cooperation and coordinated anti-terror operations like the “Peace Mission.” - Large Geopolitical Influence
With over 40% of the world’s population and vast land coverage, SCO is a powerful bloc influencing Eurasian geopolitics, economy, and security policies. - Promotes Economic and Energy Cooperation
The organization facilitates regional trade, energy dialogue, and investment connectivity, promoting shared growth among members through projects in transport, infrastructure, and financial integration. - Boosts Regional Connectivity
SCO supports cross-border infrastructure and transport corridors, aligning with initiatives like China’s BRI and India’s interest in linking with Central Asian and Eurasian markets. - Encourages Multilateral Diplomacy
It offers a platform for India and others to engage in multilateral diplomacy, balance rivalries, and pursue strategic interests beyond bilateral limitations.
Challenges:
- Selective focus on terrorism damages credibility.
E.g., Ignoring Pahalgam attack undermines the anti-terrorism agenda. - China-Pakistan alignment often isolates Indian concerns.
E.g., Belt and Road Initiative opposed by India remains a divide. - Pakistan's inclusion conflicts with anti-terror goals.
E.g., Its record on harboring terror groups weakens collective efforts. - Language and political alignment marginalize Indian proposals.
E.g., Official use of Chinese and Russian limits inclusive dialogue.
Way Forward:
- Push for a balanced narrative on terrorism.
E.g., Insist on inclusion of all relevant attacks in SCO reports. - Strengthen India’s strategic partnerships within SCO.
E.g., Deepen ties with Central Asian countries and Russia. - Demand reforms in decision-making processes.
E.g., Advocate for multilingual official communications. - Highlight India's democratic and anti-terror credentials.
E.g., Showcase India's success in neutralizing cross-border threats.
Conclusion:
India’s refusal to sign the SCO joint statement marks a significant diplomatic assertion against selective narratives on terrorism. As a responsible member, India is committed to regional cooperation, but not at the cost of national security and principled diplomacy. Moving forward, India is likely to play a more proactive role in shaping SCO’s direction towards genuine multilateralism and security cooperation.