India’s Stand at the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meet

GS2 – International Relations

Context

India’s Defence Minister opted not to sign the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) joint statement during the defence ministers’ meeting in China. The statement omitted reference to the Pahalgam terror attack but highlighted a train hijacking in Pakistan’s Balochistan, leading India to withhold endorsement.

About SCO:

• A Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance.
• Formed in 2001, it evolved from the “Shanghai Five” (1996): China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
• Member States: India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Belarus.
• Focus Area: Counter-terrorism via the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) based in Tashkent.

India’s Position:

• Reasserted its uncompromising stance that terrorism and normal relations cannot coexist.
• Criticised selective references in the SCO statement and demanded consistent global narratives against terrorism.

Strategic Implications:

• Checks China’s Diplomatic Dominance: Amid Russia’s distraction due to Ukraine, China has increased influence in SCO, often favouring Pakistan. India’s stance signals resistance.
• Assertive Strategic Autonomy: Reflects India’s commitment to prioritising national interests even on platforms dominated by adversarial powers.
• Enhanced Credibility: India’s firm anti-terror posture resonates with countries critical of selective international responses to terrorism.