New Delhi: Defence Minister of India, Mr Rajnath Singh will head a high-level Indian delegation at the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting scheduled for June 25-26, 2025, in Qingdao, China. This key regional gathering of Defence Ministers aims to strengthen cooperation on issues of regional and global peace, security, and counter-terrorism among SCO member states.
India’s Vision for Peace and Security
During the meeting, Mr Singh is expected to present India’s vision centered on fostering global peace and security. He will underscore the importance of collaborative and sustained efforts to eliminate terrorism and extremism in the region, emphasizing the shared responsibility of SCO member nations in addressing these threats.
The Raksha Mantri will also advocate for enhanced trade, economic cooperation, and connectivity within the SCO framework, highlighting the potential for deeper integration that can boost regional prosperity and stability.
Bilateral Engagements with Key SCO Members
Alongside the multilateral discussions, Mr Singh will hold crucial bilateral talks with Defence Ministers of select SCO countries, including China and Russia. These meetings aim to reinforce bilateral defence cooperation, address mutual concerns, and explore avenues for stronger strategic ties.
India’s Commitment to Multilateralism through SCO
India views the SCO as a vital platform for promoting multilateralism, political dialogue, security cooperation, and economic as well as people-to-people interactions in the Eurasian region. India’s participation reflects its commitment to the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference, mutual respect, and equality among member states.
India became a full member of the SCO in 2017 and took on the rotating Chairmanship in 2023, further reflecting its active role within the organisation. SCO membership comprises Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Belarus, and India.
China to Chair SCO in 2025
The 2025 SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting is held under China’s chairmanship, with the theme “Upholding the Shanghai Spirit: SCO on the Move.” The meeting aims to strengthen the SCO’s role as a key regional actor addressing peace, security, and development challenges.
About SCO
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance. It was established in 2001 by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan joined in 2017. The SCO’s primary goals include promoting regional cooperation, strengthening mutual trust, and ensuring peace, security, and stability in the region according to the SCO. It’s a platform for cooperation in areas like trade, economics, science, technology, and culture.
