SCO calls for multipolar world order as Iran joins grouping

Subject : International Relations

Section: Groupings

Concept :

The virtual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), chaired by Mr Modi, addressed the importance of establishing a “more representative” and multipolar world order.
The summit witnessed the induction of Iran as the ninth member of the SCO.

Expansion and Composition of SCO:

The SCO now consists of China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Iran’s induction as the latest member reflects the SCO’s commitment to broadening its representation.

Agreements and Declarations:

The New Delhi Declaration: Outlined areas of cooperation between SCO countries.
Joint Statement on Countering Radicalisation: Addressed the need to combat radicalisation and promote stability.
Joint Statement on Digital Transformation: India offered expertise on digital payment interfaces for sharing within the SCO.

Concerns and Lack of Consensus:

India’s stance on China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): India abstained from supporting the BRI paragraphs in the joint statement due to its inclusion of projects in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
India’s absence from the SCO Economic Development Strategy 2030: India’s refusal to participate in the joint statement suggests a lack of consensus within the group.

SCO’s Stance on Sanctions and Currency Use:

Joint criticism of non-UN sanctions: SCO members expressed opposition to sanctions on Russia and Iran, considering them incompatible with international law and negatively impacting other countries.
Exploring the use of national currencies: SCO members agreed to explore the use of national currencies for payments within the group to bypass dollar-based international transactions.

Global Challenges and Vision:

The Delhi Declaration’s focus: The declaration acknowledged global challenges such as conflicts, market turbulence, supply chain instability, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Commitment to a multipolar world order: The member states reaffirmed their commitment to a more representative, democratic, just, and multipolar world order based on international law, multilateralism, and equal cooperation, with the UN playing a central coordinating role.