SCO Summit 2024

Context of the SCO Summit 2024

The 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit recently concluded in Astana, Kazakhstan. This significant event brought together leaders from across the region to discuss various geopolitical and economic issues.

India played a prominent role in the summit. The External Affairs Minister represented India and delivered the Prime Minister’s message, highlighting key national and regional priorities.

India's Key Priorities at the Summit

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.

• Combating Terrorism: India reiterated its strong commitment to countering terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, emphasizing collective regional efforts.
• Addressing Climate Change: The need for concerted action on climate change was highlighted, stressing sustainable development and environmental protection.

New Membership: Belarus Joins SCO

A significant development at the 2024 summit was the expansion of the organization. Belarus officially became the 10th member state of the SCO, marking a new chapter for the grouping.

Following this, the Indian External Affairs Minister also held a bilateral meeting with his Belarusian counterpart. This meeting aimed to further strengthen the existing bilateral ties between India and Belarus.

The Astana Declaration and Strategic Agreements

The 24th SCO Summit in Astana culminated in the adoption of a pivotal document, the Astana Declaration. This declaration outlines the collective vision and commitments of the member states.

In addition to the declaration, the summit approved a total of 25 strategic agreements. These agreements span a wide range of critical sectors, aiming to enhance cooperation among member nations.

• Key Sectors Covered:
• Security
• Trade
• Finance
• Information Security

SCO Development Strategy until 2035

The Council of Heads of State members of the SCO adopted a forward-looking document: the SCO Development Strategy until 2035. This strategy provides a long-term roadmap for the organization's future trajectory and objectives.

The strategy and accompanying resolutions address several key areas vital for regional stability and prosperity.

• Core Focus Areas:
• Combating terrorism, separatism and extremism
• Anti-drug strategy
• Energy cooperation
• Economic development
• Cooperation in protected areas and eco-tourism

Further commitments were made through the signing of a memorandum to combat illicit drug trafficking and an interaction plan on international information security issues. These underscore the comprehensive approach to regional challenges.