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India's External Minister S Jaishankar delivered a powerful message on the importance of peace and stability for economic development at the 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Islamabad, Pakistan. The meeting marked a significant event in the context of strained relations between India and Pakistan, making Jaishankar's presence all the more noteworthy. His remarks, focused on the detrimental impact of cross-border terrorism and extremism on trade, energy flows, and connectivity, were a direct call for both nations to prioritize regional peace and cooperation.
Jaishankar emphasized that genuine partnerships and a shared commitment to the SCO Charter are crucial for progress. He underscored that development and growth are contingent upon a secure and stable environment. Echoing the SCO Charter's stance on combating the ‘three evils’ – terrorism, separatism, and extremism – Jaishankar highlighted the inherent threat these activities pose to regional prosperity. He asserted that activities across borders, characterized by these threats, are antithetical to the promotion of trade, energy exchange, connectivity, and people-to-people interaction.
Moving beyond regional concerns, Jaishankar also advocated for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to ensure greater representation of developing countries. He argued that the SCO should champion this change, pushing for a more representative, inclusive, and democratic Security Council. This call for reform resonates with India's long-standing pursuit of a more equitable global order, aligning with its aspirations for a stronger voice on the international stage.
The meeting itself held historical significance. It marked the first visit by an Indian Foreign Minister to Pakistan in nearly nine years, despite lingering tensions over the Kashmir issue and persistent accusations of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan. Jaishankar's participation, while highlighting the challenges, also symbolized a cautious effort toward engaging with Pakistan within a multilateral framework.
The SCO, an intergovernmental organization established in 2001, plays a vital role in promoting regional cooperation and security. The meeting in Pakistan focused on the organization's trade and economic agenda. The choice of Pakistan as the host further emphasizes the importance of the SCO platform for dialogue and collaboration, even amid bilateral tensions. Jaishankar's participation, therefore, serves as a testament to the potential of multilateral diplomacy to navigate complex geopolitical situations.
Source: 'Terror activities across borders won't boost trade': S Jaishankar at SCO Summit in Pakistan