Islamabad, October 17: In a pointed speech at the 23rd Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government in Islamabad, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called for introspection on the state of regional relations. He emphasized that the absence of trust and cooperation among nations must be addressed for regional growth and stability.
“If friendship falls short or good neighbourliness is missing, we must reflect on the causes and find solutions,” Jaishankar said, underscoring the need for honest dialogue.
He criticized cross-border terrorism, extremism, and separatism—referred to as the “three evils”—as key obstacles to trade, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges. In what appeared to be a veiled reference to Pakistan, he noted that activities driven by these evils hinder cooperation and economic flows.
Cooperation Based on Mutual Respect
Jaishankar called for partnerships built on mutual respect, territorial integrity, and sovereign equality rather than unilateral agendas. He stressed that regional collaboration must align with the SCO Charter’s principles for meaningful development. “Peace and stability are prerequisites for progress, and countering the ‘three evils’ is essential,” he added.
Highlighting India’s global initiatives, Jaishankar said, “Our efforts, such as the International Solar Alliance and Global Biofuel Alliance, align with SCO’s vision by promoting energy transition and sustainability.”
Reforming the UNSC and Embracing a Changing World Order
Jaishankar reiterated India’s demand for comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to ensure better representation for developing nations. “The case for reformed multilateralism is growing stronger, and the SCO must lead these efforts,” he stated. He referred to the “Pact for the Future,” adopted at the recent UN General Assembly, which advocates a more transparent, representative, and accountable UNSC.
Economic Synergy and Regional Opportunities
Addressing the economic potential of the SCO region, Jaishankar highlighted the benefits of industrial cooperation, MSME collaboration, and enhanced connectivity. “Investment flows, business networks, and efficient logistics could transform our region,” he noted, adding that sectors like health, food, energy, and climate action are ripe for collaboration.
Jaishankar also emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges, education, and sports as key areas for fostering synergy among SCO nations. “Our collective efforts will benefit everyone—especially through affordable healthcare and pharmaceutical innovations,” he remarked.
A Diplomatic Gesture Amid Tensions
During his visit, Jaishankar was received by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with visuals showing both leaders exchanging handshakes. Jaishankar also joined officials from the Indian High Commission for a morning walk at the embassy premises, reflecting a symbolic gesture of normalcy amidst strained India-Pakistan relations.
The two-day SCO summit, chaired by Pakistan’s Prime Minister, aims to strengthen cooperation among member nations. The gathering offers a platform for the region’s leaders to discuss trade, security, and political challenges in the evolving global landscape.
