In his address at the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the crucial need for peace, stability, and regional cooperation to foster economic development and prosperity. He pointed out that cross-border infiltration disrupts trade and negatively affects public relations among nations, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and sovereign equality among SCO members.
Jaishankar discussed the potential for industrial cooperation, particularly through small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to enhance employment, increase competition, and expand markets. He stated, “Collective initiatives can increase resources and encourage investment flows, benefiting business communities through larger networks.”
He also focused on environmental sustainability, advocating for collaborative efforts in environmental protection. He noted that the International Solar Alliance could promote renewable energy, while the Alliance for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure would help member nations prepare for climate-related challenges.
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Addressing global health issues, Jaishankar called for joint cooperation to tackle health challenges, asserting that affordable and accessible medicines are essential for treating both communicable and non-communicable diseases. He stressed the need for comprehensive reforms in international institutions, emphasizing the modernization of bodies like the United Nations Security Council. “Global trade and rebalancing are realities that cannot be denied,” he remarked, urging SCO nations to seize emerging opportunities in trade, investment, and energy cooperation.
Jaishankar underscored that the region could only benefit from these opportunities if cooperation is rooted in genuine partnerships rather than unilateral agendas. He asserted the necessity of acting according to the SCO charter to address issues such as terrorism, separatism, and extremism. He called for an honest discussion among SCO members to build trust and promote regional development, stating, “Mutual trust and cooperation are key to achieving regional growth.”
He acknowledged the challenging global landscape, marked by ongoing conflicts and the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on developing nations. He raised concerns about rising debt levels and the global lag in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while also noting that while technology presents opportunities, it introduces new challenges that require collective action.
Jaishankar highlighted the importance of Article 1 of the SCO Charter, which aims to strengthen mutual trust, friendship, and good neighborliness. He congratulated Pakistan on assuming the presidency of the SCO this year and expressed India’s full support for a successful presidency.
In closing, he reiterated the need for the SCO to play a significant role in addressing both regional and global challenges, particularly in combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism, which he deemed critical for ensuring peace and stability.
