The Business Press – July 03, 2023 at 06:31PM
President Vladimir Putin, amidst geopolitical challenges faced by Russia, is set to participate in his first multilateral summit since the armed rebellion took place. Hosted by India, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit brings together member countries to discuss security, economic cooperation, and global issues.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization, founded by Russia and China, aims to counter Western alliances and strengthen cooperation across a vast region, from East Asia to the Indian Ocean. The group focuses on deepening security and economic ties, combating terrorism and drug trafficking, addressing climate change, and discussing the situation in Afghanistan after the Taliban’s takeover. While recent tensions between Russia and Ukraine have not taken center stage in public discussions, the impact on developing countries’ food and fuel security remains a concern for the group.
The SCO summit holds significant importance for Russia, as it aims to demonstrate that the Western world has failed to isolate it. With the inclusion of Central Asian nations and other countries like Pakistan and Iran, where Russian influence runs deep, Russia seeks to project strength and credibility on the global stage. Additionally, the SCO provides an opportunity for President Putin to assert control following recent challenges to his government.
India’s hosting of the SCO summit allows Prime Minister Narendra Modi to highlight the country’s growing global clout. As one of the members since 2017, India aims to balance its ties with the West and the East, engaging more deeply with Central Asia. India’s relationship with Russia remains strong as it continues to rely on Russian crude and defense hardware. However, India also faces pressure from the U.S. and its allies, who view India as a potential counterweight to China’s rising ambitions.
India’s presence at the summit is driven by its quest to safeguard its national interests. It is likely to emphasize the need to combat cross-border terrorism, aimed at Pakistan, which India accuses of supporting rebels fighting for independence in Indian-controlled Kashmir. Furthermore, India may stress the importance of respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty, which serves as a reminder to China amidst their ongoing border tensions.
China’s growing prominence in forums like the SCO, along with Russia’s anti-Western approach, challenges India’s independent foreign policy. However, the SCO holds relevance for several countries seeking an alternative to Western foreign policies. As interest for full membership from countries like Myanmar, Turkey, and Afghanistan grows, the SCO’s expansion could present concerns for Western capitals. The group has the potential to shape future global geopolitics, particularly if its influence continues to grow.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit serves as a platform for member countries to strengthen security cooperation, enhance economic ties, and address global challenges. This year’s meeting, hosted by India, provides President Putin an opportunity to showcase strength amidst recent domestic challenges. It also enables India to further engage with Central Asia and assert its independent foreign policy. As the SCO expands and gains prominence, Western capitals will need to consider its implications on the global geopolitical landscape.
The Business Press 