EAM S Jaishankar calls SCO meeting 'productive,' highlights eight key outcomes

As the meeting concluded, Jaishankar extended India’s best wishes to Russia as it takes over the SCO Council of Heads of Government Presidency.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar described the recent meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government in Islamabad as "productive," highlighting India’s positive contributions to the discussions. Taking to social media platform X, Jaishankar expressed his gratitude to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and the Government of Pakistan for their hospitality during his visit.

Jaishankar said that eight key outcome documents were signed at the meeting, which saw significant dialogue on several key areas. India’s contributions included advancing discussions on the idea of "One Earth, One Family, One Future" and promoting initiatives like the SCO Startup Forum and the SWG on Startups and Innovation, as well as traditional medicine.

A productive meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government concluded in Islamabad today.Signed eight outcome documents. India made a positive and constructive contribution to the deliberations.8 key takeaways from the Indian perspective: Developing a dialogue on the pic.twitter.com/uOxdZ5hJTL
Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 16, 2024

Key takeaways from India’s perspective included a focus on digital public infrastructure (DPI) and digital inclusion, which are now part of the SCO’s cooperation framework. India also advocated for incorporating Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) principles in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

On the global front, India pushed for enhancing food security and nutrition through the use of climate-resilient and nutritious grains like millets. Connectivity projects were also discussed, with an emphasis on ensuring they are fair, balanced, and in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.

India reiterated its stance on upholding a rules-based, non-discriminatory, and transparent multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core. Jaishankar also stressed the need to oppose protectionist measures, unilateral sanctions, and trade restrictions, which India believes hamper global sustainable development.

As the meeting concluded, Jaishankar extended India’s best wishes to Russia as it takes over the SCO Council of Heads of Government Presidency.