23rd SCO Meeting -External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar represented India at the 23rd Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government, held on October 15-16, 2024, in Islamabad, Pakistan. During his address, he stressed the need for peace and stability as essential elements for development and growth. Dr. Jaishankar highlighted that activities like terrorism, extremism, and separatism negatively affect efforts to boost trade, energy, and connectivity.
Key Highlights from Dr. S Jaishankar’s Speech at 23rd SCO Meeting
- Terrorism and Extremism: Dr. Jaishankar expressed concerns over cross-border activities and their impact on regional cooperation. He emphasized the need for mutual respect and recognition of territorial integrity.
- India’s Initiatives: He spoke about India’s role within the SCO framework, highlighting the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and India’s focus on digital infrastructure. He also promoted India’s initiatives like Mission LIFE, Yoga, and the use of millets.
- Climate Change and Debt: The Minister addressed global challenges such as climate change, supply chain disruptions, and financial volatility. He called for collaboration to address these issues and promote economic development.
- Stance on the Belt and Road Initiative: India refused to endorse China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) due to concerns over the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, a region India claims as its own.
- SCO and UN Reforms: Dr. Jaishankar advocated for the reform of the United Nations Security Council, urging for greater representation of developing countries to enhance its credibility and effectiveness.
Attendees of the 23rd SCO Meeting Heads of Government Council
The meeting was attended by leaders from Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, and Iran. Afghanistan was not invited due to its suspended observer status in the SCO.
| Meeting Information | Details |
| Event | 23rd SCO Heads of Government Meeting |
| Date | October 15-16, 2024 |
| Venue | Islamabad, Pakistan |
| Hosted by | Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif |
| Notable Attendee | Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister |
23rd SCO Meeting- Summary:
- Dr. S. Jaishankar represented India at the 23rd SCO Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad.
- He emphasized the need for peace and stability for regional development.
- India refused to endorse China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
- Dr. Jaishankar called for global cooperation in areas such as climate change, renewable energy, and disaster resilience.
- He urged for comprehensive reforms in the UN Security Council.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
The meeting primarily addresses economic, trade, and connectivity issues among member nations.
Leaders from Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Iran, and India participated. Afghanistan was excluded due to suspended observer status.
India opposed the BRI because the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, violating India’s sovereignty.
He mentioned India’s leadership in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and disaster resilience, including initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
Dr. Jaishankar urged for comprehensive reforms in the UN Security Council to include more representation from developing nations.
The SCO aims to promote regional cooperation in trade, connectivity, security, and political stability among its member nations.
The 25th SCO Heads of State Council meeting is scheduled to be held in China in 2025.
