At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Islamabad, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a pointed message, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and sovereign equality in international cooperation. His remarks appeared directed at China and Pakistan, with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese Premier Li Qiang in attendance.
During the 23rd meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government, Jaishankar outlined the key challenges faced by the SCO, including terrorism, separatism, and extremism. He emphasized that these issues are crucial to address for the betterment of regional cooperation.
Jaishankar’s Address on Trust and Cooperation Jaishankar stressed the need for honest dialogue within the SCO, saying, “If trust is lacking, cooperation inadequate, or friendship falls short, we need to introspect and find the reasons behind it.” He reiterated that for the SCO to thrive, members must adhere to the principles of its Charter, which calls for strengthening mutual trust, good neighborliness, and multi-faceted cooperation.
Geopolitical Challenges Reflecting on the current global landscape, Jaishankar noted the challenges posed by two ongoing global conflicts, the lingering effects of the Covid pandemic, and the impact of climate change, supply chain disruptions, and financial instability. He urged SCO members to look to the Charter for guidance, stressing the importance of combatting terrorism, separatism, and extremism as critical to maintaining peace and stability.
Territorial Integrity and Sovereignty In a clear reference to China’s infrastructure projects in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan’s stance on overland transit for Indian goods, Jaishankar said that cooperation must recognize territorial integrity and sovereign equality. He warned against unilateral agendas and selective global practices, especially in trade and transit.
Focus on Regional Connectivity Despite these challenges, Jaishankar highlighted the potential for regional growth and integration, emphasizing that cooperation in areas such as industrial development, MSME collaboration, and connectivity could drive economic growth. He also underscored the benefits of working together on energy, environmental protection, and health security, which would boost development across the region.
India’s Initiatives and Call for UN Reform Jaishankar pointed to India’s global initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuel Alliance, as examples of India’s commitment to sustainability and regional growth. He also called for UN Security Council reforms, stressing the need for greater representation of developing nations, a point India has been advocating amid resistance from China and Pakistan.
In closing, Jaishankar urged SCO members to reaffirm their commitment to the Charter and to work together for mutual benefit, highlighting that peace and stability are essential for regional development.
