Rajnath Singh Backs SCO Action Plan for Trade and Economic Growth
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh supports the SCO Action Plan for multilateral trade and economic cooperation during the meeting in Dushanbe.
In a significant move to bolster regional stability and economic growth, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has announced India's support for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) Action Plan for 2026-2030. Speaking at the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the Minister emphasized the urgent need for a India SCO Action Plan that prioritizes multilateral trade and economic cooperation to navigate an increasingly volatile global landscape.
Navigating Global Economic Uncertainties
Addressing the gathering, Rajnath Singh pointed out that the world is currently grappling with an era of extreme economic unpredictability. He highlighted how ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflicts have led to severe disruptions in global supply chains, creating a ripple effect that threatens stability across borders.
The Defence Minister specifically raised alarms regarding two critical pillars of human survival: energy and food security. He noted that these have become primary concerns for member nations as traditional trade routes and agreements are tested by international friction.
"India believes that our economic engagement should be inclusive as well as beneficial for the countries in every manner. We should make supply chains even more resilient, trade and investment more convenient, and use technology for development," said Rajnath Singh.
The Vision for 2026-2030
The proposed Program for Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation is designed to create a framework for comprehensive development. The core objectives of this initiative include:
- Transparent Conditions: Establishing predictable and stable environments for sectoral ties.
- Trade Volume: Actively working to increase mutual trade volumes among member states.
- Investment Expansion: Broadening investment cooperation to improve the overall well-being of the citizens within the SCO countries.
- Inclusive Growth: Ensuring that the dividends of economic cooperation are not limited to the elite but reach every section of society.
Singh also touched upon the dual nature of modern technology, noting that while it transforms economies, it also risks creating new societal and economic divides. He suggested that the success of the SCO would be measured by its ability to find common ground and collaborate effectively on these challenges.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties on the Sidelines
Beyond the main council sessions, the Defence Minister utilized the summit to strengthen India's diplomatic and military footprints in the region through several high-profile meetings:
Engagement with Tajikistan
Rajnath Singh met with Tajikistan Prime Minister Qohir Rosulzoda, where he highlighted the deep-rooted civilisational ties and the strong people-to-people connections that bind the two nations. Additionally, he held talks with his Tajik counterpart, Emomali Sobirzoda, focusing specifically on enhancing bilateral defence cooperation, with a particular emphasis on training and capacity building.
Meeting with Iran
The Minister also held a separate meeting with Iran's First Vice President, Mohammad Reza Aref, further underscoring India's commitment to maintaining productive relationships with all regional partners.
According to the Ministry of Defence, India's active participation in the Dushanbe meeting is a testament to its ongoing commitment to the SCO and its desire to foster practical, mutually beneficial cooperation among all member states.