Following a recent thaw in bilateral relations, India and China held their first bilateral consultations under the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Thursday and Friday, signalling a renewed push to deepen cooperation.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the discussions focused on implementing decisions taken by SCO leaders and shaping the organisation’s future direction. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration and maintaining regular consultations within the SCO framework.
Engagement between the two countries in multilateral platforms such as BRICS and the SCO has gained momentum following the resolution of the eastern Ladakh military standoff in 2024. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited China last year for the SCO summit, while Beijing has extended support for India’s current BRICS presidency.
Focus on Security, Trade and Connectivity
The MEA stated that both delegations jointly met Secretary (West) Sibi George to review cooperation within the SCO framework, including in the areas of security, trade, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges. The two sides also agreed to continue bilateral consultations going forward.
India has consistently emphasised the significance of its SCO membership, noting that the organisation was established to combat terrorism, extremism, and radicalisation. New Delhi also views the grouping as a key platform for enhancing regional connectivity, provided such initiatives respect sovereignty and territorial integrity in line with the SCO charter. Prime Minister Modi reiterated this position during his address at the summit in Tianjin last year.
Looking ahead, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is expected to visit India for the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting scheduled for May 14–15. Additionally, President Xi Jinping is anticipated to travel to India in September for a summit.
SCO Membership and Role
The SCO currently comprises ten member states: Belarus, China, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and India. The organisation also includes several observer states and dialogue partners. India became a full member in 2017, having previously held observer status since 2005.
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