EAM Jaishankar Signs Eight Major Documents at SCO Council of Heads of Government Meeting

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar achieved notable progress during the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad.

By signing eight key outcome documents, Jaishankar emphasized India's active and prominent role in the discussions, reinforcing the country's leadership on global platforms.

These actions reaffirm India's leadership in global diplomacy, sustainability, and innovation, showcasing its commitment to global cooperation.

India’s Key Contributions at the SCO Summit

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, in a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), described India's role in the summit as “positive and constructive.” This aligns with India's broader vision of inclusive global cooperation, a key theme throughout the event.

A key element of India’s participation was its advocacy of the theme "One Earth, One Family, One Future," which underscores the nation’s commitment to promoting global unity and cooperation. This theme, also central to India’s G20 Presidency, highlights the importance of inclusivity, sustainability, and responsible environmental stewardship on the global stage.

Key Indian Initiatives Presented at the SCO Summit

India introduced several initiatives during the summit, which garnered positive responses from the member states. These included:

• SCO Startup Forum: Designed to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation across the region, this platform fosters collaboration and growth among member nations.

• Special Working Group (SWG) on Startups and Innovation: Focused on creating a supportive ecosystem for startups and technological advancement within the SCO framework.

• Traditional Medicine: India advocated for the use of traditional medicine, emphasizing its potential to provide accessible and cost-effective healthcare solutions.

Jaishankar noted, “Developing a dialogue on the idea of One Earth, One Family, One Future. Outcomes of India initiatives like SCO Startup Forum, SWG on Startups and Innovation, and Traditional Medicine were welcomed by SCO members.”

Advancing Digital and Environmental Agendas

India's digital transformation agenda gained further momentum at the summit, with the incorporation of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and digital inclusion into the SCO's cooperative framework. These efforts aim to create a more inclusive and interconnected digital ecosystem, benefiting member states through improved access to technology.

EAM Jaishankar also spotlighted Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), an Indian initiative aimed at promoting sustainable living practices. The initiative aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), urging member nations to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles that support global environmental conservation efforts.

“DPI & Digital inclusion becoming part of the SCO cooperation framework. SCO taking inspiration from Mission LiFE to achieve UNSDGs,” Jaishankar added.

Global food security was a major focus at the summit, with India addressing the challenges of climate change and food shortages by advocating for the use of climate-resilient grains like millets as a sustainable solution.  These nutrient-dense crops are well-suited to adverse environmental conditions, offering a promising strategy for combating global hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Jaishankar also stressed the importance of fair and balanced connectivity projects, calling for adherence to international law and the principles outlined in both the UN and SCO Charters.

He remarked, “Enhancing global food security and nutrition through promoting use of climate-resilient and nutritious grains such as millets. Upholding fair and balanced connectivity projects in accordance with international law, the goals and principles of the UN Charter and SCO Charter.”

India’s Commitment to Multilateralism and Fair Trade

India also underlined the significance of maintaining a rules-based, open, fair, and inclusive multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core. EAM Jaishankar spoke against protectionism, unilateral sanctions, and trade barriers, which disrupt the multilateral trading system and hinder sustainable global development.

“Reemphasizing rules-based, non-discriminatory, open, fair, inclusive, and transparent multilateral trading system with WTO at its core. Opposing protectionist actions, unilateral sanctions, and trade restrictions that undermine the multilateral trading system and impede global sustainable development,” Jaishankar stated.

Russia to Take Over SCO Presidency

As the summit drew to a close, EAM Jaishankar extended his best wishes to Russia, which is set to take over the Presidency of the SCO Council of Heads of Government. This change in leadership is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future direction of the SCO and its initiatives.

Conclusion

India’s participation in the 23rd SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, led by EAM S. Jaishankar, showcased the country’s proactive approach to global cooperation, innovation, and sustainability. From promoting climate-resilient agriculture to advancing digital inclusion and championing fair international trade, India’s contributions were well-received by SCO member states.

The signing of eight key documents at the summit reflects India’s growing leadership role in addressing pressing global issues such as food security, environmental preservation, and multilateralism. As the SCO evolves under Russia’s upcoming presidency, India’s initiatives and vision will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the organization’s future.