The SCO Summit, a pivotal gathering of Eurasian nations, is set to convene in Islamabad, Pakistan, on October 15-16, 2024. This high-profile event will bring together leaders from member states to address pressing regional and global issues. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, an intergovernmental body focusing on political, economic, defense, and security matters in Eurasia, will see representatives from its nine member countries converge to discuss and strategize on various fronts.

SCO Summit: A Platform for Regional Cooperation

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, established in 2001, has evolved into a significant platform for fostering multilateral cooperation in Eurasia. The 2024 summit in Pakistan marks a crucial juncture for the organization, as it tackles a range of challenges facing the region. With the theme “Strengthening Multilateral Dialogue—Striving Towards a Sustainable Peace and Prosperity,” the summit aims to reinforce the SCO’s role in promoting regional stability and development.

The host country, Pakistan, currently holds the rotating chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG). This position places Pakistan at the forefront of organizing and steering the discussions during the summit. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will play a pivotal role in hosting counterparts from other member states, including China’s President Xi Jinping and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin.

Key Agendas and Focus Areas

1. Combating Terrorism and Enhancing Security

One of the primary focuses of the SCO Summit will be addressing the persistent threat of terrorism in the region. Member states are expected to discuss strategies to combat cross-border terrorism and strengthen the Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS). The summit will likely see deliberations on isolating countries that harbor terrorists and enhancing intelligence sharing among member states to bolster regional security.

2. Economic Cooperation and Trade Initiatives

Economic collaboration forms a crucial pillar of the SCO’s objectives. The 2024 summit will place significant emphasis on fostering trade and investment initiatives among member countries. India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, is expected to highlight the “Make in India” initiative as a potential driver for global economic growth. Discussions may also revolve around enhancing connectivity, promoting digital economy, and exploring new avenues for economic partnerships, particularly with nations in the Global South.

3. Climate Change and Environmental Protection

With climate change posing an increasing threat to global stability, the SCO Summit will dedicate substantial attention to environmental protection and sustainable development. Member states are likely to discuss collaborative efforts to address climate change, including the development of climate-resilient infrastructure and the promotion of sustainable practices across various sectors. This agenda item aligns with the growing global emphasis on environmental sustainability and the need for concerted action to mitigate climate-related risks.

SCO Summit Participation and Diplomatic Significance

The 2024 SCO Summit will see participation from a diverse array of nations. The nine full member states – China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan – will be at the forefront of discussions. Additionally, the summit will be attended by representatives from observer states (Afghanistan, Belarus, and Mongolia) and dialogue partners (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Turkey).

India’s participation, led by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, is particularly noteworthy. Jaishankar has clarified that his visit is primarily for the SCO summit and not to discuss India-Pakistan relations specifically. This stance underscores the summit’s focus on multilateral cooperation rather than bilateral issues.

The presence of major powers like China and Russia, represented by their respective heads of state, adds significant diplomatic weight to the summit. Their participation highlights the SCO’s role as a platform for these nations to engage with regional partners and assert their influence in Eurasia.

Challenges and Opportunities

The SCO Summit 2024 comes at a time of complex geopolitical dynamics in the region. Ongoing tensions between various member states, including India and Pakistan, and broader global conflicts pose challenges to the organization’s cohesion. However, the summit also presents opportunities for dialogue and conflict resolution.

The organization’s expansion, with Iran joining as a full member, adds a new dimension to regional dynamics. This expansion could potentially enhance the SCO’s influence in addressing Middle Eastern affairs and energy security issues.

Moreover, the summit provides a platform for member states to address shared challenges such as the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, regional economic recovery, and the evolving situation in Afghanistan. These discussions could lead to concrete action plans and collaborative initiatives to tackle these issues collectively.

The SCO Summit’s Regional and Global Impact

As the SCO Summit 2024 approaches, its potential impact on regional and global affairs cannot be understated. The gathering in Islamabad represents a significant opportunity for member states to strengthen multilateral ties, address common challenges, and chart a course for enhanced cooperation in various domains.

The outcomes of the summit will likely have far-reaching implications for regional security, economic cooperation, and environmental protection. As the world watches, the SCO’s ability to foster dialogue and find common ground among diverse nations will be put to the test. The success of this summit could reinforce the organization’s role as a key player in shaping the future of Eurasia and beyond.

The SCO Summit in Pakistan serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of international relations, where regional organizations play an increasingly crucial role in addressing global challenges. As member states convene in Islamabad, the world will be watching to see how this influential group of nations navigates the complex terrain of regional cooperation and global diplomacy.