Bishkek/New Delhi, Sep 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek to call for greater dialogue, stronger cooperation and a united approach to terrorism, while highlighting the importance of peace and stability for regional development.
Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia
The SCO brings together major countries across Eurasia with a broad agenda covering security, counter-terrorism, economic cooperation, trade, connectivity, energy and cultural exchanges. For India, the grouping provides an important platform to engage with key regional economies and strengthen economic and strategic partnerships.
A major focus of the summit was regional security. PM Modi stressed that conflicts should be addressed through dialogue and diplomatic efforts rather than through prolonged confrontation. A stable geopolitical environment is important for businesses because wars and political tensions can disrupt trade routes, supply chains, energy supplies and investment flows.
Counter-terrorism was another major issue. India called for a coordinated approach against terrorism and emphasised the need to dismantle networks and support systems that enable terrorist activities. Stronger security cooperation can also contribute to a more predictable environment for trade and investment.
The summit also has an important economic dimension. Greater cooperation among SCO members could create opportunities in sectors such as infrastructure, logistics, manufacturing, energy, technology and cross-border trade.
Connectivity remains particularly important for businesses. Improved transport networks and trade corridors can reduce logistics costs, shorten delivery times and help Indian companies access markets across Central Asia and other parts of the SCO region.
Energy cooperation is another area with significant relevance for India. Engagement with energy-rich countries can help diversify supplies and strengthen energy security, which is important for industries ranging from manufacturing and transportation to chemicals and power.
Technology and digital cooperation could also become an expanding area of engagement. Collaboration in digital services, fintech, cybersecurity and emerging technologies could provide new opportunities for Indian technology companies and startups.
The summit also saw interaction between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Their engagement comes as India and China continue to manage a complex relationship involving security, trade and economic ties.
For Indian businesses, stronger engagement with SCO economies could provide opportunities to expand exports, develop new supply-chain partnerships and access emerging markets. Sectors such as pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, information technology, automobiles, agriculture and consumer products could benefit from greater regional trade.
At the same time, geopolitical tensions remain a key risk for businesses operating across the region. Higher energy prices, disruptions to shipping routes and uncertainty in global markets can increase costs and affect investment decisions.
The SCO Summit therefore carries significance beyond diplomacy. Its focus on security, connectivity and economic cooperation could influence the business environment across a large part of Eurasia, while giving India an opportunity to strengthen its trade and investment links with regional partners.
For India, the broader objective is to combine stronger regional engagement with economic growth, supply-chain resilience and greater opportunities for domestic businesses in international markets.