India@SCO: What Opportunities Does India Seek At The SCO Meeting In Pakistan?

As India approaches the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad on October 15-16, 2024, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's visit marks a significant diplomatic moment-the first by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan since December 2015. This meeting provides an essential platform for India to engage with neighboring countries, particularly in light of its historical and cultural ties with Central Asia.

The Importance of the SCO for India

The SCO, established in 2001, includes key players like China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Iran. This multilateral organisation, which India joined in 2017, covers a vast geographical area and population, making it the largest regional group globally. India's involvement is not merely a matter of diplomatic protocol; it reflects a strategic engagement with a region that is integral to its security and economic interests.

Central Asian nations like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are significant partners for India, primarily due to their rich natural resources and historical connections. For instance, Kazakhstan is the largest producer of uranium, essential for India's nuclear energy ambitions, while Turkmenistan holds some of the world's largest natural gas reserves. By participating in the SCO, India aims to solidify these relationships, enhance trade, and address shared security challenges.

Key Expectations from the Islamabad Meeting

The upcoming SCO summit is poised to address several critical issues, primarily focusing on security and counter-terrorism. Given the rising incidents of terrorism affecting various member states, including recent attacks in Pakistan targeting Chinese nationals, the discussion on counter-terrorism will likely take centre stage. The SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) has been instrumental in facilitating cooperation among member states, enabling them to share intelligence and coordinate actions against terrorist threats.

Moreover, the ongoing geopolitical tensions arising from the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict will also be significant talking points. These issues resonate deeply within the SCO, as member states navigate their own security concerns and regional stability challenges. India's position on these matters will likely reflect its broader strategic interests in fostering a stable and secure neighbourhood.

India's previous chairmanship of the SCO saw the introduction of several initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation among member states, focusing on areas like traditional medicine, sustainable development through the promotion of millet, and leveraging digital public infrastructure for economic growth. As India seeks to advance these initiatives, it aims to position itself as a proactive player in shaping the SCO's agenda, emphasising mutual benefits and collaboration among member states.

Navigating Relations with Pakistan and China

While some factions in India have criticized Jaishankar's visit to Pakistan, viewing it as a potential compromise on the stance against terrorism, the decision to attend the SCO meeting underscores India's commitment to multilateral engagement. India's consistent position has been that dialogue cannot coexist with terrorism, reflecting a carefully balanced approach to its foreign policy.

On the front of India-China relations, the dynamics within the SCO are particularly complex. Although informal talks have occurred in the past on the sidelines of SCO summits, formal discussions seem unlikely during this meeting. Recent tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) continue to strain relations, making any substantial diplomatic engagement challenging. Nevertheless, India remains keen on maintaining a presence in the SCO to counterbalance China's influence in the region.

The Role of Multi-Alignment in India's Foreign Policy

India's participation in both the SCO and the Quad highlights its strategic approach of multi-alignment, allowing it to navigate relationships across different geopolitical spheres. The Quad focuses on ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific and addresses concerns related to China's assertiveness, while the SCO emphasises regional cooperation and collective security in Asia.

By engaging with both frameworks, India aims to maintain its unique position as a bridge between different geopolitical interests, enhancing its stature on the global stage. This balancing act is crucial for India as it seeks to foster partnerships that promote regional stability while safeguarding its own national interests.

Conclusion

The SCO meeting in Pakistan presents a vital opportunity for India to engage with Central Asian countries and address pressing security concerns. As it navigates complex relationships with Pakistan and China, India's participation in this multilateral forum underscores its commitment to fostering regional cooperation and enhancing its strategic position. Through this engagement, India hopes to secure a more stable and prosperous future for itself and its neighbours.