The recently concluded 18th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)summit in the coastal city of Qingdao in the Shandong Province of China was India's first SCO summit as a "Full-Time Member", a status that India got at the Astana SCO summit in Kazakhstan in June last year.
- A key take away that came from this 18th SCO summit was the adoption of the "Qingdao Declaration" that calls for a comprehensive 3-year plan to combat terrorism, separatism and extremism.
- This crucial declaration was adopted by the leaders of India, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Pakistan.
- The declaration does not limit itself to combating terrorism but covers under its progressive umbrella numerous other issues such as: "Implementation of treaty on long term good neighbourliness, friendship and co-operation."
- While praising Afghanistan President Ghani for taking courageous steps for peace, PM Modi said Afghanistan was “an unfortunate example” of terrorism.
- It must be noted that the SCO has a Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) in place that works to achieve regional stability & security.
- RATS is based in Tashkent, encourages cooperation among the members to exchange information and achieve the common goal of curbing terrorism and dealing with security challenges.
- Another highlight of this summit was India's clear and unambiguous stand on China ambitious "Belt and Road Initiative" (BRI) programme.
- India was the only member state that did not give the SCO its consent on BRI.
- PM Modi in his speech said that India “welcomes new connectivity projects that are inclusive, sustainable, transparent, and those that respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations”.
- He also stressed on the fact that “connectivity with SCO and neighbours is a priority for India”.
- But since the proposed BRI passes through Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, India will not endorse the project as it is against its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- All in all it was a productive summit with the most important take away for China being India's support in the on going trade dispute that China is facing with the Trump administration.
