October 17, 2024
Due to territorial sovereignty issues, India remains the only SCO member to oppose China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
Discussions between India and Pakistan indicated a potential resumption of cricket ties, though these are still early
The SCO's joint communique reaffirmed support for China’s BRI, but India did not endorse it, citing concerns over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir
The summit saw criticism of Western sanctions on Russia and Iran, which were deemed harmful to international trade and economic relations
India, Pakistan, China, Russia, and other member states attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Islamabad. India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, represented the country in the first visit of an Indian minister to Pakistan in nine years. Key geopolitical issues, including China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and regional security, were discussed.
In his address, Jaishankar cautiously raised concerns about terrorism, extremism, and separatism, indirectly addressing issues related to Pakistan. He emphasised that regional cooperation must be built on mutual respect, sovereign equality, and genuine partnerships while underlining India’s reservations about China’s BRI. India has consistently opposed the BRI as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, a region claimed by India. New Delhi has highlighted that countries participating in BRI risk falling into China’s debt trap.
At the same time, discussions between Jaishankar and his Pakistani counterpart, Muhammad Ishaq Dar, sparked speculation about a potential revival of cricketing ties between the two nations. While early talks have taken place, sources suggest that the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, to be hosted by Pakistan in February, could offer an opening for such collaboration.
Meanwhile, Pakistan remains a strong supporter of the BRI, particularly due to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which brings infrastructure development to the country. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged member nations not to view the project through a political lens but instead focus on enhancing regional connectivity.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang echoed these sentiments, calling for regional cooperation to boost trade, investment, and connectivity. The summit’s joint communique reaffirmed support for China’s BRI, though India did not endorse it.
The summit also addressed broader international concerns, with criticism directed at the unilateral sanctions imposed by Western nations on countries like Russia and Iran. According to the joint statement, these sanctions were deemed incompatible with international law and harmful to global economic relations, particularly for smaller nations wary of repercussions from the US and other Western powers.
Source: Indian Express