As the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation turns 25, its Bishkek summit comes at a time of deepening geopolitical turbulence. For India, the grouping is more than a regional forum: it is a crucial platform to advance strategic autonomy, counter terrorism, strengthen ties with Central Asia and secure connectivity across Eurasia while navigating the growing influence of China

The upcoming annual leaders’ summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) at Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan, which PM Narendra Modi will attend, comes amid ongoing geopolitical shifts and strategic realignments that continue to trigger severe global economic consequences.

The motto of the summit on August 31-September 1 - ‘25 years of the SCO: Together Towards Sustainable Peace, Development and Prosperity’ - serves both as an ambitious goal and a test of regional cooperation.

The summit takes place against a backdrop of global turmoil driven by Russia’s long-drawn war with Ukraine and the unabating US-Israel-Iran conflict. Both Russia and Iran are SCO members. These conflicts have had a major impact on the global economy and the SCO motto, therefore, assumes even greater significance.

Over its 25-year history, the SCO has expanded considerably. It now includes 10 member states, two observer states and 15 dialogue partners that encompass a vast geographical area, diverse cultures and people. For India, SCO membership provides a crucial platform to pursue its strategic interests in the vast Eurasia region.

India transitioned from an observer state in 2005 to full membership in 2017 alongside Pakistan, whose inclusion was backed by its all-weather ally, China. The other........

© The Pioneer