Modi Describes SCO as Strategic Opportunity

(MENAFN) Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as a valuable “opportunity” for India, even as the United States imposed steep 50% tariffs on Indian exports due to its ongoing purchase of Russian oil.

The newly enacted trade penalties have further intensified tensions between New Delhi and Washington.

The SCO, a regional alliance, currently spans nearly 24% of the earth’s landmass and encompasses around 42% of the global population.

Its member nations contribute to about one-fourth of the world's gross domestic product, with trade among them expanding nearly a hundredfold over the past twenty years.

Modi emphasized that the SCO represents more than just an economic bloc—it signifies “security and cooperation” for India.

He made these remarks during the 25th gathering of SCO leaders held in the northern Chinese port city of Tianjin.

The prime minister’s comments were delivered as the newly implemented U.S. trade measures came into effect the previous week. In response, Indian authorities criticized the move, labeling the tariffs as “unfair.”

Addressing the summit, which included key figures like Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to regional connectivity.

He stated that the country has always believed “strong connectivity not only boosts trade but also opens doors to growth and trust.”

Expanding on India’s vision for the SCO, Modi noted the country’s ambition to move beyond governmental collaboration.

“Our effort was to take SCO beyond governments. To connect common people, young scientists, scholars and start-ups as well,” he said.

He concluded by outlining India’s developmental philosophy, based on the principle of reform, perform, and transform.

"We are consistently pursuing wide-ranging reforms, which are creating new opportunities for both national development and international cooperation. I warmly invite you all to be a part of India’s development journey," Modi said.

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