The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit held in Tianjin, China, marked a significant diplomatic milestone for India. On the second day, the shared declaration strongly condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Just two months ago, consensus was not reached during the SCO defense ministers’ meeting, leading Defense Minister Rajnath Singh to withhold his signature from the declaration. Additionally, India showcased its independence by rejecting Western pressures, highlighting its long-standing friendship with Russia.
Let’s explore the key accomplishments India achieved at the SCO summit in China.
1. Targeting Pakistan
Prime Minister Narendra Modi indirectly exposed Pakistan without naming it on the global stage, referencing the Pahalgam terrorist attack, and displaying the stark effects of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism internationally. Modi stated that India has suffered from terrorism for four decades, and the recent killing of innocent civilians in Pahalgam is an assault on humanity.
He emphasized, 'This attack is not just on India's conscience but poses an open challenge to every nation that cherishes humanity. There can be no double standards on terrorism.'
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s body language was quite telling. While Modi and Putin met warmly, embracing and shaking hands, Pakistan’s Prime Minister lingered in the background, which itself speaks volumes about who stands strong and confident on the international stage.
Source: aajtak
2. Russia-India’s 'Time-Tested Friendship'
A pivotal diplomatic highlight was President Vladimir Putin waiting for Prime Minister Modi. Putin remained sitting in his car for about 10 minutes until Modi arrived, upon which they exchanged a warm greeting. Modi joined Putin in his car, engaging in a private conversation lasting 40-50 minutes.
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This meeting sent a significant message to Western nations: India–Russia friendship is built on a “time-tested partnership.” Russia supported India in its challenging times, and now India stands by Russia during its difficult phase. In December, Putin will visit India to seal new defense and trade agreements.
Source: aajtak
3. Rejecting Western Pressure
During the SCO summit, the camaraderie among Modi, Putin, and Xi Jinping was a hot topic internationally. Russian diplomats described it as the “beginning of a new world order.” The light-hearted conversations and relaxed ambiance were noted as positive signs in the relationships between China, India, and Russia.
These developments conveyed to U.S. President Donald Trump and Western nations that India pursues an independent foreign policy. Despite efforts to exert pressure, India has strengthened its ties with Russia.
4. India-Russia Defense Collaboration
The focus also remained on defense partnerships—showcasing cooperation from BrahMos missiles to the S-400 air defense systems. New defense and commercial agreements are anticipated during Putin’s December visit to India. While the U.S. and Western nations pressed India to distance from Russia, the Modi-Putin meeting underscored India’s independent diplomatic path and unwillingness to compromise its national interests.
President Putin proposed developing a system for payment and settlements within the SCO framework. Most SCO countries are already trading in their native currencies. This move challenges the dominance of the dollar-based economy, a concern for Western countries, especially the United States.
5. Global Dynamics with China
The discussions in Tianjin among three major leaders—Modi, Putin, and Xi Jinping—were termed by Russian diplomats as the “beginning of a new world order.” It was the first time leaders from China, India, and Russia met in such a friendly environment, exchanging laughter and jokes, with warm camaraderie between Modi and Putin likely to irk Trump.
The issue of Russian oil tariffs, imposed arbitrarily by the U.S. in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, was addressed. However, following the Modi-Putin meeting, it was firmly stated that both leaders are committed to bolstering the special strategic friendship between India and Russia. Furthermore, regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, Prime Minister Modi advocates for cessation of hostilities and a stable peace agreement. This call reflects humanity's broader appeal.
Source: aajtak
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President Putin further emphasized developing a payment and settlement system within the SCO framework. The majority of SCO nations are already engaging in trade using their currencies. This signals a move to challenge the established dollar-centric economic supremacy, increasing apprehension among Western nations, notably the United States.
