SCO Summit 2024

23 January 2025

The 24th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit was held in Astana, Kazakhstan on July 4, 2024. The SCO members adopted the Astana Declaration, reinforcing their cooperation and approved 25 strategic documents covering energy, security, trade, finance, and information security. The summit was significant as Belarus became SCO’s first European member and organisation’s 10th member state.

The continuous expansion of SCO has been reflecting its evolving role, transitioning from a regional cooperation platform to potentially forming a broader counter-western bloc. They further extended an invitation to the global community to join this initiative, aiming to reshape global governance in a more inclusive and just direction.

China would assume the chairmanship for the next period, with the 2025 meeting of the Council of Heads of the SCO Member States.

About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

Formally known as Shanghai Five, the organisation was established in 1996 with Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Tajikistan as founding members. The organisation was renamed to Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in 2001 after Uzbekistan joined. Therefore, SCO as a prominent intergovernmental international organisation was formally established on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, China.

The SCO evolved from the earlier Shanghai Five mechanism, which aimed to enhance security cooperation and foster mutual trust among its members. The SCO Charter was signed in 2002 and was effective from September 19, 2003.

The primary objectives of the SCO include strengthening mutual trust, promoting effective cooperation, ensuring peace and security, and advocating for a new democratic and fair international political and economic order. Externally, it promotes non-alignment and openness while avoiding targeting any specific countries or regions. Over time, its agenda has broadened to include economic, scientific, and cultural cooperation, alongside its original focus on security issues.

The SCO expanded to include India and Pakistan as seventh and eighth members, respectively, in 2017. In 2021, Iran became the ninth member of the SCO.

The supreme decision-making body of the SCO is the Council of Heads of States, which convenes annually to address critical issues facing the organisation. It operates through two permanent bodies: the Secretariat in Beijing and the Executive Committee of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) in Tashkent.

Some Key Points of the Astana Declaration

The SCO Member States emphasised the need to enhance the organisation’s role in fostering global peace, security, and stability while contributing to the development of a new democratic and fair international political and economic order. They adopted the SCO initiative On World Unity for a Just Peace, Harmony and Development, and called on the global community to joint this effort.
The member states opposed the decisions on interference in the internal affairs and supported UN reform for better developing country representation. Additionally, they committed to a fair multipolar worlds order based on international law, diversity, and UN cooperation.
The member states condemned the unilateral expansion of missile defence systems, viewing it as harmful to global security. They adopted a Statement on Good Neighbourliness and aimed to enhance cooperation in various fields for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future.
The member states recognised Central Asia as the SCO’s core support efforts for ensuring regional peace and stability. They emphasised the alignment of SCO’s strategic goals with Central Asian countries and highlighted the SCO’s significant role in regional security, economic growth, and social development, including environmental sustainability.
The member states are aiming to develop the SCO Development Strategy until 2035, enhancing its influence in a multipolar world. They are focused on improving SCO’s efficiency and adapting to evolving challenges, emphasising strengthened cooperation for combatting terrorism, extremism, organised crime, and security threats.
The members viewed the SCO interaction as a key to creating equal, indivisible security in Eurasia. They opposed the activities that undermined the sovereignty and territorial integrity, reaffirming their commitment in combatting terrorism, separatism, and extremism. The SCO rejected the double standards in fighting terrorism and condemned the use of terrorist groups for mercenary goals and addressed extremist ideologies, especially among youth.
The members were urged to isolate countries that were harbouring terrorists and opposing cyber propaganda from terrorist organisations. They advocated for a Comprehensive Convention on Combatting International Terrorism within UN and were committed to countering radical ideologies, religious intolerance, and discrimination.
They welcomed the UN General Assembly resolution against glorifying Nazism and racism. They condemned the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, urging a sustainable ceasefire, humanitarian access, and efforts for peace and stability in the region.
They emphasised that a comprehensive, fair settlement of the Palestinian issue is key to Middle East peace. They adopted the SCO’s 2025–27 Programme of Cooperation for countering terrorism, separatism, and extremism, and would strengthen anti-terrorism efforts, including joint exercises. They further praised Tajikistan’s efforts in regional anti-terrorism cooperation and Eurasia-Antiterror 2023 joint exercise that took place in Kyrgyzstan.
To counter chemical and biological terrorism, member states emphasised the need for multilateral negotiations at the Conference on Disarmament to establish an international convention for the suppression of such acts.
In the context of Afghanistan, the member states emphasised that an inclusive Afghan government would be the key to lasting peace. They supported Kazakhstan’s proposal for UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty.
The SCO Counter-Narcotics Strategy for 2024–29 draft was considered by the member states which is aimed at combating global drug threats and the promotion of a drug-free society. They supported anti-drug operations and cooperation with the Central Asian Regional Information Coordination Centre. They emphasised on the importance of the Iranian Nuclear Program’s comprehensive implementation, nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament efforts.
The member states advocated for a weapon-free outer space which is in compliance with the existing legal frameworks. They supported the strengthening of the Biological Weapons Convention with a binding protocol and Kazakhstan’s proposal for an International Biosafety Agency. Furthermore, they stressed on full compliance with the Chemical Weapons Convention, promotion consensus in the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. They emphasised on the importance of combatting transnational organised crime.
They supported Iran’s initiative for the creation of an SCO Police and emphasised the UN’s role in ensuring information security, respecting sovereignty, and preventing interference. They advocated for a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communication Technologies for Criminal Purposes with the UN.
Unilateral sanctions were opposed by the SCO leaders noting their impact on international law and economic relations. They supported enhancement of people’s well-being in the SCO region through multilateral cooperation, the SCO Economic Development Strategy until 2030 and the New Economic Dialogue Programme. Member states except India, reaffirmed their support for China’s Belt and Road Initiative, emphasising regional cooperation based on mutual respect and national interests.
The SCO leaders welcomed Russia’s proposal for a Greater Eurasian Partnership involving SCO countries and other regional associations and reaffirmed their commitment to 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, promotion of inclusive economic globalisation and strengthening customs and certification cooperation among SCO countries.
They emphasised on boosting up of cooperation in e-commerce, digital technologies, and consumer protection. They highlighted collaboration in agriculture, food security, and innovation including seed production. They welcomed the results of the 4th SCO Startup Forum held in New Delhi, March 19, 2024.
Member states supported the Kazakhstan proposal on creation of the SCO Investment Fund. Further, the leaders approved the Strategy for Energy Cooperation until 2030, following the results of SCO Energy Forum, 2023.
The roles of the Interbank Association, SCO Business Council, and youth entrepreneurship in unlocking economic potential were highlighted by the member states. They welcomed cultural and humanitarian cooperation, including initiatives such as the SCO Cultural Exchange Calendar and tourism expansion, as well as rural, gastronomic and medical tourism.
Kazakhstan’s Almaty, the tourist and cultural capital of the SCO 2023–24, was praised by the member states and they also supported Qingdao as the 2024–25 capital, boosting regional tourism and cultural cooperation.
They declared 2025 as the Year of Sustainable Development and agreed to strengthen environmental cooperation, including the climate change mitigation, technology transfer and resource mobilisation. Additionally, they recognised the need for regional cooperation for addressing the impact of sand and dust storms.
The outcomes of the third International High-Level Conference on the International Decade (2018–28) for Action—Water for Sustainable Development—were welcomed by the member states.
The member states emphasised on strengthening cooperation in sports, taking a note on upcoming marathons. They further welcomed the UNGA Resolution on UN-SCO Cooperation and highlighted environmental sustainability efforts including a joint SCO-Food and Agricultural Organisation event on food security and agriculture.

Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government, 2024

The 23rd SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting took place in Islamabad, Pakistan, on October 15–16, 2024 to discuss critical issues such as regional security, economic cooperation, and counter-terrorism. The meeting convened leaders from SCO member states, including India, China, Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. This meeting marked a significant diplomatic event for Pakistan, being the first time, it hosted a leader-level SCO meeting since becoming a full member in 2017.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting

China’s growing influence The meeting highlighted a shift in influence within the SCO, with China asserting greater control amid Russia’s preoccupation with the Ukraine conflict. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s opening speech emphasised cooperation with China and highlighted initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), which aims to enhance trade routes across Central Asia.

India’s position India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar attended the meeting, marking his first visit to Pakistan in nearly nine years. This showed India’s take on necessity for genuine partnerships based on mutual respect and sovereignty. He addressed concerns regarding cross-border terrorism and emphasised that regional cooperation cannot thrive without mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. India remains opposed to China’s BRI due to sovereignty issues related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Focus on security challenges The meeting reiterated the SCO’s commitment to combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism—issues that are particularly pertinent for India given its geopolitical context. Discussions included enhancing regional stability through cooperation among member states.

Economic cooperation initiatives The meeting fostered discussions on economic collaboration among member states, including proposals for an Economic Dialogue Programme aimed at improving trade relations and connectivity within the region. The joint statement emphasised cooperation in green development, digital economy initiatives, and renewable energy.

Afghanistan’s stability Pakistan’s prime minister underscored the importance of a stable Afghanistan for realising regional economic opportunities, urging international humanitarian support while advocating for an inclusive political approach from the Taliban—a stance aligned with China’s interests regarding Afghanistan.

Geopolitical dynamics The meeting illustrated evolving dynamics within the SCO, where China is increasingly seen as a leader while Russia maintains a balancing act amid its challenges with Western nations. Russia proposed creating an independent payment system within the SCO to reduce reliance on Western financial systems.

India-Pakistan relations Although India and Pakistan continue to have strained relations characterised by mutual distrust over terrorism and territorial disputes, there were signs of cautious engagement during the meeting. Both countries avoided contentious language in their statements, indicating a desire for improved dialogue without direct discussions on sensitive issues.

Future prospects for SCO The broad agenda of the SCO raises questions about its effectiveness as a platform for genuine multilateral cooperation. Critics argue that it often serves as a venue for member states to pursue individual foreign policy goals rather than fostering collective action.

The meeting took place against a backdrop of strained India-Pakistan relations, exacerbated by events such as the 2019 Pulwama attack and subsequent Indian airstrikes in Pakistan. Tensions further escalated following India’s revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in August 2019. Both nations have indicated that no bilateral discussions would occur during this meeting, though Jaishankar expressed India’s commitment to peaceful relations contingent upon addressing terrorism.

India and SCO

India’s relationship with the SCO has evolved significantly since it became a full member in 2017. As of 2024, India has completed seven years within this pivotal multilateral forum, which focuses on enhancing regional security, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange among its member states.
India joined the SCO with two primary objectives: to combat cross-border terrorism and to strengthen its ties with Central Asian countries. Prime Minister Modi’s assertion during the 2017 summit that “terrorism is a major threat to humanity” underscores India’s commitment to addressing security challenges through SCO collaboration. The organisation serves as a critical platform for India to engage with Central Asian nations, which are vital for its strategic interests and energy security.
India’s participation in the SCO is also aligned with Russia’s Greater Eurasian Partnership concept, which aims to enhance cooperation among major powers in the region. Russia considers India a key player in achieving stability and security in Eurasia, especially following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. This partnership is crucial for countering Western influence and fostering a multipolar world order.
India has actively sought to strengthen its ties with Central Asian countries through initiatives like the “Connect Central Asia” policy and the “Act East Policy.” The first-ever India-Central Asia Summit was held in 2022 which exemplified India’s commitment to regional development and cooperation under the motto “Support of All, Development for All.”
As India navigates its role within the SCO in 2024 and beyond, it must balance its strategic interests while addressing bilateral tensions with neighbouring countries. The SCO Meeting of the Councils of Heads of Government in Islamabad on October 15–16, 2024, provides an opportunity for India to reinforce its commitment to multilateralism and regional stability while advocating for stronger cooperation against terrorism and promoting economic ties among member states.

Challenges for India in SCO

India faces several significant challenges within the SCO, which impact its ability to effectively engage in this multilateral forum. These challenges are primarily rooted in security concerns, geopolitical dynamics, and connectivity issues.

Security concerns and terrorism One of the foremost challenges for India within the SCO is the persistent threat of cross-border terrorism, particularly from Pakistan. Despite the SCO’s stated goals of combating terrorism and promoting regional security, India’s concerns regarding state-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan remain inadequately addressed. The recent terrorist bus attack in Reasi serves as a stark reminder of this ongoing threat, complicating India’s participation in the SCO’s counter-terrorism initiatives. The effectiveness of the SCO’s RATS has been questioned, as it has not sufficiently focused on India’s specific security concerns, which diminishes the organisation’s relevance for India.

Connectivity issues India’s exclusion from China’s BRI further complicates its position within the SCO. India’s decision to abstain from participating in the BRI is primarily due to sovereignty concerns related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which traverses Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This lack of participation limits India’s connectivity options with Central Asia, a region it views as strategically important for trade and energy security. Moreover, projects like the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India pipeline have stalled due to geopolitical tensions and instability in Afghanistan, exacerbated by Pakistan’s reluctance to facilitate connectivity through its territory. While India has invested in alternative connectivity projects such as the INSTC and Chabahar Port, these initiatives face their own hurdles and have yet to yield significant results.

Geopolitical dynamics India’s relationships with key SCO members, particularly China and Pakistan, create additional complexities. Strained relations with China due to border tensions have limited bilateral engagement within the SCO framework since 2021. Prime Minister Modi’s irregular attendance at SCO summits raises concerns about India’s commitment to the organisation and its ability to assert its interests effectively. Furthermore, India’s multi-alignment strategy—balancing its participation in both the SCO and other forums like the QUAD—reflects its efforts to counterbalance China’s influence while maintaining vital trade ties. However, this balancing act often leads to a perception of inconsistency in India’s engagement with the SCO.

Western sanctions on Russia The imposition of Western sanctions on Russia further complicates trade relations among SCO member states. Russia’s call for India and China to conduct trade in local currencies faces challenges due to currency volatility, which can hinder economic cooperation within the organisation.

Conclusion

The 2024 SCO Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, aimed to enhance regional cooperation and address global challenges, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to mutual trust, regional security, and economic collaboration. The Astana Declaration, adopted during the summit, emphasised priorities such as combating terrorism, enhancing energy cooperation, and promoting sustainable development. With Belarus joining as the tenth member state, the SCO’s influence is expanding, solidifying its role in Eurasian geopolitics.

The Islamabad summit underscored significant geopolitical shifts within the SCO framework, highlighting China’s increasing dominance while reflecting India’s cautious engagement amidst ongoing tensions with Pakistan. The outcomes suggest potential avenues for enhanced regional cooperation but also reveal underlying challenges that may hinder collective progress among member states.

India’s active participation highlights its strategic intent to engage with Central Asian nations while addressing critical issues like cross-border terrorism and climate change.

Tectonic shifts have been occurring in global politics, economics, and international relations, with the emergence of a more just and multipolar world order. This shift has been creating new opportunities for state development and fostering mutually beneficial, equal international cooperation. However, challenges still persist, given that the use of force is increasing, international law is being systematically violated, and geopolitical confrontations and conflicts are intensifying. These dynamics contribute to growing risks to global and regional stability, including within the SCO member states.

However, the SCO stands at a crucial juncture as it seeks to adapt to changing global dynamics while promoting stability and prosperity in Eurasia. The efforts made during the summit and meeting will be instrumental in shaping the future direction of the organisation and enhancing its role as a key player in addressing regional and global challenges.