Highlights
- External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hosted the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting in Goa.
- He welcomed the enthusiastic participation of all members and highlighted the need for reform and modernization of the SCO.
- Jaishankar reiterated India’s priorities, including the fight against terrorism and respect for sovereignty.
Positive Developments in the SCO:
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted positive developments in the SCO, including progress for the admission of Iran and Belarus as full member states and making English the third official language. He also drew attention to Varanasi, which hosted several events as the first Cultural & Tourist Capital of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
Need for Reform and Modernization:
Jaishankar acknowledged that the current crises have highlighted a credibility and trust deficit in the capacity of global institutions to effectively manage challenges. He emphasized the need for reform and modernization of the SCO to aid a more contemporary outlook, which India will actively support.
India’s Priorities and Concerns:
In regards to terrorism, Jaishankar emphasized that it remains an ongoing threat to our security interests and should not be overlooked. He reiterated that terrorism cannot be justified and must be stopped in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism. Additionally, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of connectivity while respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. He also stressed the need for continued attention to the situation in Afghanistan, with efforts directed toward promoting the welfare of the Afghan people.
Seeking Support for Approval of Leaders at the SCO Summit:
During the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting hosted by S Jaishankar, he sought support from member states for the timely finalization of documents to be approved by leaders at the upcoming SCO Summit in New Delhi. Additionally, Jaishankar expressed appreciation for member countries’ support of India’s proposal to create two new working groups focused on Startups & Innovation, and Traditional Medicine. Under India’s presidency, the country has prioritized moving “Towards a SECURE SCO.”
