New Delhi: In an address at the 22nd session of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, emphasized the importance of member countries adhering to the principles of international law, respecting sovereignty, and encouraging economic cooperation. Though not named, his remarks seemed to take a veiled swipe at China.

Jaishankar called on the SCO to work collaboratively in promoting regional stability and prosperity. He stressed that the interests of Central Asian states play a pivotal role in this context.

China's massive investments in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan, particularly through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), have long been a point of contention with India. Jaishankar subtly underscored this concern by emphasizing that economic initiatives should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.

Highlighting India's deep civilizational ties with SCO countries, Jaishankar spoke of the shared cultural exchanges that have influenced customs, traditions, language, and cuisine. He proposed that these historical relationships should serve as a blueprint for enhanced economic cooperation.

Moreover, he advocated for robust connectivity and infrastructure to improve trade within the region. In another indirect reference to China, he warned against imposing unviable debts on the Global South through opaque initiatives, referring to the concerns of debt traps and regional hegemony associated with China's Belt and Road Initiative.

Jaishankar also mentioned the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) as potential "prosperity enablers." The IMEC was jointly announced by the US, India, and other nations as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative. The INSTC, on the other hand, is a multi-mode network of transportation routes spanning over 7,200 km. The call for adherence to international law and respect for sovereignty while promoting economic cooperation reflects India's stance on responsible global engagement.

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