INDIA'S STRATEGIC ROLE IN SCO: STRENGTHENING EURASIAN TIES

Additional motivations for India joining the SCO included enhancing connectivity between Central and South Asia, promoting energy security, and countering terrorism and illegal narcotics trade

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In 2023, India assumed leadership of two major international organizations: the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the G20. On July 4, 2023, India hosted the 22nd Summit of the SCO Council of Heads of State in a virtual format, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi serving as chair. This event marked India’s inaugural leadership of the SCO, underscoring its commitment to enhancing relations with the five Central Asian nations.

India’s chairmanship of the SCO occurred during a period of global upheaval, marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. These events have disrupted established international political norms, presenting India with a unique opportunity to guide discussions on critical issues affecting Eurasian politics and beyond.

Strengthening relations with Central Asia, a region of significant geostrategic importance and part of India’s ‘extended neighborhood,’ was a primary objective for Indian policymakers.

Through the SCO, India aimed to foster multilateral cooperation with the Central Asian republics, enhance connectivity, boost trade relations, and promote regional security.