SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting

Syllabus: GS 2/IR

Why in news-

• India’s participation in the recent SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting held in Astana, Kazakhstan, and elaborates on India’s role within the SCO.

Key Points:

Meeting Outcome:

• The SCO countries agreed to develop the concept of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ based on the Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (world is one family).

India’s Stance

• • Emphasized maintaining peace, stability, and security in the region.
  • Advocated for zero tolerance against terrorism for SCO prosperity.
  • Highlighted the need for a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the UN.
  • Promoted the ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’ concept for the Indo-Pacific.

About SCO

• • Established in 2001, it’s a Eurasian security organization focusing on political, economic, and security cooperation.
  • Current Members: China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran (9 total).
  • Official Languages: Chinese and Russian.
  • Goals: strengthen regional security, promote economic cooperation, and establish a new international order.

India and SCO

• • Actively participates since becoming a full member in 2017.
  • Focuses on mutually beneficial initiatives for SCO members, observers, and dialogue partners.
  • Uses SCO to safeguard its northern borders and promote geostrategic/economic interests in Central and South Asia.
  • During the 2023 presidency, India pushed for cooperation in startups, innovation, traditional medicine, etc.
  • Supported the ‘SECURE SCO’ theme: Security, Economic Development, Connectivity, Uniting People, Respect for Sovereignty, Environmental Protection.
  • Gained support for an Afghan-led peace process.
  • Countered China-Pakistan influence through infrastructure projects like Chabahar Port and INSTC.