<h4>Context of the SCO Summit 2024</h4><p>The <strong>2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit</strong> recently concluded in <strong>Astana, Kazakhstan</strong>. This significant event brought together leaders from across the region to discuss various geopolitical and economic issues.</p><p><strong>India</strong> played a prominent role in the summit. The <strong>External Affairs Minister</strong> represented India and delivered the Prime Minister’s message, highlighting key national and regional priorities.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Event:</strong> SCO Summit 2024</p><p><strong>Location:</strong> Astana, Kazakhstan 📍</p><p><strong>Indian Representation:</strong> External Affairs Minister</p></div><h4>India's Key Priorities at the Summit</h4><p>India's message underscored two critical areas of focus for the organization. These priorities reflect both regional challenges and India's broader foreign policy objectives.</p><ul><li><strong>Combating Terrorism:</strong> India reiterated its strong commitment to countering terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, emphasizing collective regional efforts.</li><li><strong>Addressing Climate Change:</strong> The need for concerted action on climate change was highlighted, stressing sustainable development and environmental protection.</li></ul><div class='key-point-box'><p>India's primary concerns articulated at the summit were <strong>combating terrorism</strong> and <strong>addressing climate change</strong>.</p></div><h4>New Membership: Belarus Joins SCO</h4><p>A significant development at the 2024 summit was the expansion of the organization. <strong>Belarus</strong> officially became the <strong>10th member state</strong> of the <strong>SCO</strong>, marking a new chapter for the grouping.</p><p>Following this, the <strong>Indian External Affairs Minister</strong> also held a bilateral meeting with his <strong>Belarusian counterpart</strong>. This meeting aimed to further strengthen the existing bilateral ties between India and Belarus.</p><h4>The Astana Declaration and Strategic Agreements</h4><p>The <strong>24th SCO Summit</strong> in <strong>Astana</strong> culminated in the adoption of a pivotal document, the <strong>Astana Declaration</strong>. This declaration outlines the collective vision and commitments of the member states.</p><p>In addition to the declaration, the summit approved a total of <strong>25 strategic agreements</strong>. These agreements span a wide range of critical sectors, aiming to enhance cooperation among member nations.</p><ul><li><strong>Key Sectors Covered:</strong></li><li><strong>Security</strong></li><li><strong>Trade</strong></li><li><strong>Finance</strong></li><li><strong>Information Security</strong></li></ul><h4>SCO Development Strategy until 2035</h4><p>The <strong>Council of Heads of State</strong> members of the <strong>SCO</strong> adopted a forward-looking document: the <strong>SCO Development Strategy until 2035</strong>. This strategy provides a long-term roadmap for the organization's future trajectory and objectives.</p><p>The strategy and accompanying resolutions address several key areas vital for regional stability and prosperity.</p><ul><li><strong>Core Focus Areas:</strong></li><li><strong>Combating terrorism, separatism and extremism</strong></li><li><strong>Anti-drug strategy</strong></li><li><strong>Energy cooperation</strong></li><li><strong>Economic development</strong></li><li><strong>Cooperation in protected areas and eco-tourism</strong></li></ul><p>Further commitments were made through the signing of a memorandum to combat <strong>illicit drug trafficking</strong> and an interaction plan on <strong>international information security issues</strong>. These underscore the comprehensive approach to regional challenges.</p>