In an era where regional cooperation and connectivity are pivotal for global progress, Kazakhstan, under the leadership of Murat Nurtleu, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, has emerged as a significant leader. This year, Kazakhstan’s presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of State has injected new vigor into the organization, advancing political, security, and economic dimensions across member states.
Kazakhstan's hosting of the SCO meetings in the picturesque city of Astana showcased its commitment to regional unity. Despite Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s Minister of External Affairs, being unable to attend due to India's General Elections, he extended his best wishes for the success of the meetings. India fondly recalls Astana's pivotal role in 2017 under Kazakhstan's presidency when the decision was made to admit India as a member of the SCO, marking a significant milestone in the organization's history.
The SCO family recently welcomed Iran as a new member, amidst the sorrowful backdrop of a tragic accident that claimed the lives of President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian. India expresses deep condolences to the people of Iran during this period of grief. Additionally, the anticipation of Belarus joining the SCO as a member in July 2024 adds further momentum to the organization's expanding influence.
India's deep-rooted civilizational ties with the Central Asian region highlight a shared geographical and cultural heritage. Historically, the continuous movement of goods, ideas, and people has significantly shaped customs, traditions, languages, and cuisines. These enduring connections now provide a framework for enhanced cooperation and stronger people-to-people contacts among SCO nations. The centrality of Central Asian states' interests is crucial, and the SCO offers a platform for unity, collaboration, and shared prosperity, embodying the ancient principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—‘The World is One Family.’
Since joining the SCO in 2017, India has proactively contributed to the organization's global role. During India's presidency last year, efforts were centered on advancing the theme 'Towards a SECURE SCO,' representing Security, Economic Cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environment. India emphasized five pillars of cooperation: Science & Technology, Startups & Innovation, Traditional Medicine, Shared Buddhist Heritage, and Youth Empowerment.
India initiated the Special Working Group on Startups and Innovation to foster collaboration among SCO Member States, organizing various initiatives to bolster the startup ecosystems since 2020. The 4th SCO Startup Forum, held in March 2024, is a testament to these efforts. Additionally, the Expert Working Group on Traditional Medicine was established to explore traditional health practices across member states, leading to the WHO setting up a Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Gujarat.
India's presidency also witnessed significant progress in digital inclusion and financial inclusion. The approval of a Concept Note on Digital Public Infrastructure and a Report on Digital Financial Inclusion, alongside a Statement on Cooperation in Digital Transformation, emphasized efficiency, transparency, and citizen empowerment through digital means.
Reforming and modernizing the SCO remains a key agenda. The proposal to recognize English as an official and working language aims to enhance the organization's efficiency and stature in the international arena. India is ready to support capacity-building programs for English language training through its renowned Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) courses.
Addressing terrorism, a global challenge threatening regional and global peace, requires decisive action against all forms of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism and terror financing. The SCO-RATS mechanism is instrumental in this regard, and India remains committed to countering radicalization as outlined in the 2018 SCO Heads of State address.
The situation in Afghanistan has direct implications for regional security. SCO countries must collaborate to ensure Afghanistan's territory is not used to spread instability or extremist ideologies, striving for the well-being of the Afghan people.
Strong connectivity is crucial for regional progress, fostering better trade and trust. Efforts to enhance connectivity must respect the SCO charter's principles, particularly sovereignty and territorial integrity. Following Iran’s membership, maximizing the utilization of the Chabahar Port and leveraging the International North-South Transport Corridor offer secure routes for Central Asian countries to access the Indian Ocean. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) could also drive regional economic prosperity.
Kazakhstan's ongoing presidency of the SCO stands as a beacon of progress and unity. As we look forward to a successful SCO Summit, Kazakhstan's leadership continues to inspire a vision of cooperation and connectivity for the region, paving the way for a more integrated and prosperous future for all member states.