The SCO, evolved from the Shanghai Five (1996), was founded in 2001, as a Eurasian political, economic, and security organisation. In the recent summit, Laos joined as a partner, expanding SCO’s strength to 27 nations (10 members, 17 partners).
Aims and Objectives of SCO
Security Cooperation
Combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism (the “Three Evils”).
Enhance regional peace and border stability.
Economic Cooperation
Promote regional trade, connectivity, and energy integration.
Facilitate economic development and mutual prosperity.
Political and Strategic Cooperation
Strengthen multipolarity and collective global governance.
Counterbalance Western unilateralism.
Support UN-based international order.
Cultural and People-to-People Ties – Enhance educational, tourism, and youth exchanges through SCO University, Cultural Forums, and Youth Camps.
Critical Examination of SCO
China-Pakistan-Russia Axis creates a complex geopolitical matrix with conflicting interests, especially in Afghanistan.
China-Pakistan all weather relationship – Eg- India’s Defence Minister refused to sign the joint statement for omission of mention of Pahalgam terror attack
China’s Wolf warrior diplomacy, Chequebook diplomacy disrespect for international rules and sovereignty erodes SCO’s credibility.
Expansionist Agenda via BRI- Eg- China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes through Indian territory (PoK) – opposed by India.
Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) in Tashkent fails to act decisively against cross-border terrorism, particularly state-sponsored terrorism.
China’s use of veto in the UNSC to shield Pakistan-based global terrorists undermines anti-terror efforts.
Limited trade integration -intra-SCO trade remains below 10%.
Ideological mismatch -India’s democratic ethos vs authoritarian bloc politics.
Expansion Dilemma- SCO’s enlargement, including Belarus, raises its global profile but dilutes regional focus.
“identity crisis” – absence of enforcement mechanisms making it a mere talking shop. (Vivek Katju)
SCO is increasingly seen as an “anti-West” forum and entry of Iran in SCO has made the situation difficult for India.
Significance of SCO for India
Strengthens India’s strategic outreach in Central Asia.
India hosting the SCO Summit (2023) allowed it to promote democratic and rule-based values within a predominantly authoritarian grouping.
Expand trade footprint in Eurasia- Provides access to large Central Asian markets for agriculture, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.
Technological Cooperation- Opens avenues for collaboration in AI, quantum computing, and critical technologies.
Energy Diplomacy – Access to Central Asian uranium reserves and hydrocarbons strengthens India’s energy security.
Security Cooperation through RATS (Tashkent), enables counter-terror dialogue with China, Pakistan, and Central Asian states.
Connectivity Initiatives- Supports Chabahar Port and INSTC as key trade routes to Eurasia, reducing dependence on Pakistan-controlled routes.
Diplomatic Importance
Enhances India’s strategic autonomy in a multipolar world.
Acts as a bridge between South Asia and Eurasia.
Complements India’s “Connect Central Asia” and “Act East” policies.
Public Diplomacy- Enhances Track 2 diplomacy and cultural exchanges. Promotes academic, tourism, and youth linkages.
Cultural Cooperation- Deepens ties in cultural, linguistic, and energy sectors.
Way Forward
Use SCO for counter-terrorism diplomacy and regional stability.
Deepen energy cooperation and promote green connectivity.
Coordinate with Russia and Central Asia for balanced engagement vis-à-vis China.
Leverage SCO to push for multipolarity and inclusive growth.
SCO can help realise India’s ambitions on “multi-alignment”, “strategic autonomy” and becoming a “balancing power” in the world.