Iran Becomes Full Member of SCO: Key Highlights from the India-Hosted Summit
Iran Becomes Full Member of SCO: Iran has officially become a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during an India-hosted virtual summit of the influential grouping. On this historic occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the Iranian people.
Prime Minister Modi’s Congratulations:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the Iranian people on Iran’s complete SCO membership. He also welcomed Belarus’ SCO membership, as indicated by the signing of the Memorandum of Obligations.
The Significance of SCO Membership:
PM Modi highlighted the growing interest of other countries in joining the SCO, emphasizing the organization’s importance. The interest shown by nations to become part of the SCO demonstrates the organization’s relevance and influence on regional and global affairs.
India’s Role as the Summit Host:
As the current chair of the SCO, India hosted the summit. Prime Minister Modi presided over the virtual summit, which was attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and other SCO leaders.
President Raisi’s Vision for SCO Membership:
President Raisi expressed his hopes that Iran’s inclusion in the SCO would serve as a platform for achieving collective security, sustainable development, and fostering unity among member countries.
Historical Significance of Iran’s Admission:
A declaration issued at the conclusion of the summit highlighted the historical significance of Iran’s admission as a full member state of the SCO. This recognition highlights Iran’s strategic importance and contributions to the organization’s goals and objectives.
Belarus’ Membership Advancement:
The declaration also noted the importance of the signing of the Memorandum of Obligations by Belarus to achieve the status of an SCO member state. Belarus is taking steps towards becoming a full member, further expanding the SCO’s influence and reach.
Key Points about the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO):
- Establishment: The SCO was created in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan at a summit in Shanghai, China.
- Membership Expansion: India and Pakistan became permanent members of the SCO in 2017, further expanding the organization’s reach and influence.
- Iran’s Full Membership: During an India-hosted virtual summit, Iran officially became a full member of the SCO. This move highlights Iran’s strategic importance and its commitment to cooperation within the organization.
- Belarus’ Membership Progress: The summit also acknowledged Belarus’ ratification of the Memorandum of Obligations, a step towards full membership in the SCO. Belarus’ proposed membership boosts the organisation even more.
- Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS): RATS is a specialized body within the SCO that coordinates and facilitates intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism operations among member states.