Wed Oct 16 12:03:19 UTC 2024: ## India’s Jaishankar Emphasizes Peace and Stability at SCO Summit in Pakistan
Islamabad, Pakistan – India’s External Minister S Jaishankar underscored the importance of genuine partnerships and peace for development and growth at the 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Islamabad, Pakistan on Wednesday. This marked the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly nine years, despite tense relations between the two countries over the Kashmir issue and cross-border terrorism.
Jaishankar highlighted that activities across borders characterized by terrorism, extremism, and separatism hinder trade, energy flows, and connectivity. “Our endeavours will progress only when our commitment to the Charter remains firm. It is axiomatic that development and growth requires peace and stability,” he asserted.
The minister further stressed the need for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to ensure representation of developing countries. He advocated for the SCO to champion this change, pushing for a more representative, inclusive, and democratic Security Council.
The two-day meeting, chaired by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Sharif, will focus on the trade and economic agenda of the SCO. Jaishankar is leading the Indian delegation at the summit.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), established in 2001, is a permanent intergovernmental organization with members including Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
First Piper 