<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Jul 3) met with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana. The duo met for the second time in less than two months and the fifth time after the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian forces to strengthen their “comprehensive strategic partnership”, including enhancing defence and military cooperation.</p>

<p>SCO consists of four Central Asian nations, Russia, China, India, Iran and Pakistan. The group promotes common approaches to external security threats such as drug trafficking and also focuses on countering any domestic instability.</p>

<p>During the meeting, Putin hailed Russia's deepening partnership with China, and said, "Our comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation, are experiencing their best period in history." Xi in response called Putin his "old friend" and reaffirmed that Sino-Russian relations were at a "high level."</p>

<p>"In the face of the turbulent international situation and external environment, the two sides should continue to uphold the original aspiration of friendship for generations to come," Xi said.</p>

<h2><strong>Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline</strong></h2>

<p>In a major development, the duo is understood to have directed their respective national companies to urgently work out terms and conditions for the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjmur_9t4uHAxUbR2wGHULLAS8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-xi-vie-for-influence-at-central-asian-summit-737452" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-xi-vie-for-influence-at-central-asian-summit-737452&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjmur_9t4uHAxUbR2wGHULLAS8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Putin, Xi vie for influence at Central Asian summit</a></strong></p>

<p>“Work will continue on agreeing the terms and parameters. Instructions have been given to do this as soon as possible,” Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak was quoted as saying by Interfax.</p>

<h2><strong>China's influence in Central Asia</strong></h2>

<p>As Russia finds itself burdened under Western sanctions and the war in Ukraine, China is covertly expanding its influence in the region.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjmur_9t4uHAxUbR2wGHULLAS8QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modis-visit-could-deepen-russian-trade-ties-with-india-says-kremlin-737172" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modis-visit-could-deepen-russian-trade-ties-with-india-says-kremlin-737172&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjmur_9t4uHAxUbR2wGHULLAS8QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Kremlin says trade, economy on agenda during PM Modi`s `very important` visit to Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>For instance, China became Kazakhstan’s largest trading partner last year, surpassing Russia, with total bilateral trade reaching $41 billion.</p>

<h2><strong>Who attended the meeting?</strong></h2>

<p>Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the presidents of Azerbaijan and Mongolia, Ilham Aliyev and Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh had arrived in Astana ahead of the meeting.</p>

<p>Of the biggies, China's Xi and Russia's Putin were present but Indian PM&nbsp;Narendra Modi gave it a miss. S Jaishankar, the foreign minister, attended the meeting instead.</p>

<p>PM Modi is expected in Russia later this month anyway.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Jul 3) met with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Jul 3) met with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana. The duo met for the second time in less than two months and the fifth time after the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian forces to strengthen their “comprehensive strategic partnership”, including enhancing defence and military cooperation. SCO consists of four Central Asian nations, Russia, China, India, Iran and Pakistan. The group promotes common approaches to external security threats such as drug trafficking and also focuses on countering any domestic instability. During the meeting, Putin hailed Russia's deepening partnership with China, and said, "Our comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation, are experiencing their best period in history." Xi in response called Putin his "old friend" and reaffirmed that Sino-Russian relations were at a "high level." "In the face of the turbulent international situation and external environment, the two sides should continue to uphold the original aspiration of friendship for generations to come," Xi said. Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline In a major development, the duo is understood to have directed their respective national companies to urgently work out terms and conditions for the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline. Also read: Putin, Xi vie for influence at Central Asian summit “Work will continue on agreeing the terms and parameters. Instructions have been given to do this as soon as possible,” Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak was quoted as saying by Interfax. China's influence in Central Asia As Russia finds itself burdened under Western sanctions and the war in Ukraine, China is covertly expanding its influence in the region. Also read: Kremlin says trade, economy on agenda during PM Modi`s `very important` visit to Russia For instance, China became Kazakhstan’s largest trading partner last year, surpassing Russia, with total bilateral trade reaching $41 billion. Who attended the meeting? Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the presidents of Azerbaijan and Mongolia, Ilham Aliyev and Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh had arrived in Astana ahead of the meeting. Of the biggies, China's Xi and Russia's Putin were present but Indian PM Narendra Modi gave it a miss. S Jaishankar, the foreign minister, attended the meeting instead. PM Modi is expected in Russia later this month anyway. (With inputs from agencies)

SCO summit: Xi meets 'old friend' Putin, duo vows to fast-track Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline project

<p>They say optics matter and international relations are not untouched by it either. All eyes are on the ongoing Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting in the Indian state of Goa, where foreign ministers of the member states have marked their presence under New Delhi's chairmanship.</p>

<p>The greetings upon the arrival of ministers ahead of any crucial summit like the SCO foreign ministers' meet are usually carried out with a firm handshake and photo op.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it was not business as usual on Friday when Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baps-swaminarayan-temple-vandalised-in-sydney-by-khalistan-supporters-reports-589067">BAPS Swaminarayan temple vandalised in Sydney by Khalistan supporters: Reports</a></p>

<p>Upon receiving Zardari, who arrived from Pakistan yesterday to attend SCO summit, Jaishankar chose to greet the Pakistani foreign minister with a 'Namaste' rather than a handshake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the arrival podium ahead of the commencement of the SCO meeting, there were no handshakes between the two ministers, at least not publicly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar did Namaste to the Pakistani foreign minister just like he did with other foreign ministers, including the China's Qin Gang.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-regional-bank-western-alliance-quashes-report-of-exploring-potential-sale-589038">US regional bank Western Alliance quashes report of exploring potential sale</a></p>

<h2><strong>So, why did Jaishankar choose not to shake hands?</strong></h2>

<p>Every gesture matters in international affairs. Remember Biden's fist bump with the Saudi crown prince and the striking photograph which was much discussed in the world arena?</p>

<p>Even when Rajnath Singh met his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu at the SCO defence ministers' meet, the Indian defence minister skipped a handshake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He, just like Jaishankar, chose to welcome his Chinese counterpart with a Namaste.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Leaving alone only the Chinese counterpart, Singh shook hands with Tajik, Iranian and Kazakh counterparts. The video footage gained much traction on social media and was shared widely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's ties with Pakistan are strained even further after the Pulawama terror attack and the revocation of Article 370 on the status of Jammu and Kashmir. Jaishankar, on many international forums, has brought the attention of the world towards the state-sponsored cross-border terrorism by Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | China issues report on US CIA's cyberattacks on other countries</p>

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<p>India's retaliation to the Pulwama attack with Balakot strikes in 2019 was New Delhi's befitting reply to Islamabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The most recent incident which left five soldiers dead and many others injured in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district was Pakistan’s act of “desperation” after the 2019 Balakot air strikes, as per Lt. Gen. (Retd) Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“After Pulwama, the Indian government’s resolve and their will to strike at will was showcased when we carried out the air strikes in Balakot. As per technical terminology, when the Air Force fully armed crosses the international boundary it’s actually a declaration of war,” said Dhillon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “(The) Indian Air Force crossed the Line of Control, overflew Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, suppressed the Pakistani air defence, defeated the Pakistani Air Force and crossed the international boundary.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhillon cautioned Pakistan that India will hit back if Pulwama is repeated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Balakot is not in PoK, Balakot is in proper Pakistan. So IAF struck in proper Pakistan, destroyed the camp and came back safely without even being noticed or touched by the Pakistani air defence. So that was the lesson told to Pakistan that we will hit back if you try out anything like this (Pulwama),” he added.</p>

<p>Apart from that, India-China relations have also suffered several blows in recent years. Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang in his meeting with Jaishankar said, “Both sides should continue to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, consolidate the existing achievements, strictly abide by relevant agreements, take joint action to further ease and cool down the border situation and maintain sustainable peace and tranquillity in the border areas."</p>

<p>But the tensions cut deeper than the diplomatic words. Starting from Galwan clashes to China's renaming of about 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh, the relationship is marred by varied incidents. India has already rejected China's renaming of places in Arunachal Pradesh, and the instances like Namaste for a handshake are not a surprise and are often resorted to conveying a strong warning or a message.&nbsp;</p>

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They say optics matter and international relations are not untouched by it either. All eyes are on the ongoing Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting in the Indian state of Goa, where foreign ministers of the member states have marked their presence under New Delhi's chairmanship.

They say optics matter and international relations are not untouched by it either. All eyes are on the ongoing Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting in the Indian state of Goa, where foreign ministers of the member states have marked their presence under New Delhi's chairmanship. The greetings upon the arrival of ministers ahead of any crucial summit like the SCO foreign ministers' meet are usually carried out with a firm handshake and photo op. However, it was not business as usual on Friday when Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Also Read | BAPS Swaminarayan temple vandalised in Sydney by Khalistan supporters: Reports Upon receiving Zardari, who arrived from Pakistan yesterday to attend SCO summit, Jaishankar chose to greet the Pakistani foreign minister with a 'Namaste' rather than a handshake. On the arrival podium ahead of the commencement of the SCO meeting, there were no handshakes between the two ministers, at least not publicly. Jaishankar did Namaste to the Pakistani foreign minister just like he did with other foreign ministers, including the China's Qin Gang. Also Read | US regional bank Western Alliance quashes report of exploring potential sale So, why did Jaishankar choose not to shake hands? Every gesture matters in international affairs. Remember Biden's fist bump with the Saudi crown prince and the striking photograph which was much discussed in the world arena? Even when Rajnath Singh met his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu at the SCO defence ministers' meet, the Indian defence minister skipped a handshake. He, just like Jaishankar, chose to welcome his Chinese counterpart with a Namaste. Leaving alone only the Chinese counterpart, Singh shook hands with Tajik, Iranian and Kazakh counterparts. The video footage gained much traction on social media and was shared widely. India's ties with Pakistan are strained even further after the Pulawama terror attack and the revocation of Article 370 on the status of Jammu and Kashmir. Jaishankar, on many international forums, has brought the attention of the world towards the state-sponsored cross-border terrorism by Pakistan. Watch | China issues report on US CIA's cyberattacks on other countries × India's retaliation to the Pulwama attack with Balakot strikes in 2019 was New Delhi's befitting reply to Islamabad. The most recent incident which left five soldiers dead and many others injured in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district was Pakistan’s act of “desperation” after the 2019 Balakot air strikes, as per Lt. Gen. (Retd) Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon, media reports said. “After Pulwama, the Indian government’s resolve and their will to strike at will was showcased when we carried out the air strikes in Balakot. As per technical terminology, when the Air Force fully armed crosses the international boundary it’s actually a declaration of war,” said Dhillon. He added, “(The) Indian Air Force crossed the Line of Control, overflew Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, suppressed the Pakistani air defence, defeated the Pakistani Air Force and crossed the international boundary.” Dhillon cautioned Pakistan that India will hit back if Pulwama is repeated. “Balakot is not in PoK, Balakot is in proper Pakistan. So IAF struck in proper Pakistan, destroyed the camp and came back safely without even being noticed or touched by the Pakistani air defence. So that was the lesson told to Pakistan that we will hit back if you try out anything like this (Pulwama),” he added. Apart from that, India-China relations have also suffered several blows in recent years. Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang in his meeting with Jaishankar said, “Both sides should continue to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, consolidate the existing achievements, strictly abide by relevant agreements, take joint action to further ease and cool down the border situation and maintain sustainable peace and tranquillity in the border areas." But the tensions cut deeper than the diplomatic words. Starting from Galwan clashes to China's renaming of about 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh, the relationship is marred by varied incidents. India has already rejected China's renaming of places in Arunachal Pradesh, and the instances like Namaste for a handshake are not a surprise and are often resorted to conveying a strong warning or a message. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bilawal Bhutto and S Jaishankar: Why no handshakes at SCO foreign ministers' meet?

<p>India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang Thursday on the sidelines of the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). &nbsp;The Times of India reported that the ongoing border row along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh was the prime focus of the discussions held between the two leaders. Issues related to wider interactions and cooperation on international platforms like G20, SCO and BRICS were also discussed.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A detailed discussion with State Councillor and FM Qin Gang of China on our bilateral relationship. Focus remains on resolving outstanding issues and ensuring peace and tranquillity in the border areas.<br />
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Also discussed SCO, G20 and BRICS. <a href="https://t.co/hxheaPnTqG">pic.twitter.com/hxheaPnTqG</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1654100415238279168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Second meeting in the last two months</strong></h2>

<p>The meeting between Jaishankar and Gang held Thursday was their second in the last two months. Gang visited India in March for G20 foreign ministers’ summit. During their last meeting, Jaishankar reportedly told Gang that India-China relations were "abnormal" because of the lingering border dispute.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China bars two Indian journalists from returning to Beijing</strong></p>

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<p>The Jaishankar-Gang meeting comes just a week after the defence ministers of both nations met in New Delhi on the sidelines of a conclave of the SCO defence ministers. The meeting took place on April 27.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Jaishankar also met Russian FM Lavrov</strong></h2>

<p>Jaishnkar earlier met with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, where the leaders reportedly discussed global issues of mutual interest.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Comprehensive review of our bilateral, global and multilateral cooperation with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia.<br />
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Appreciated Russia’s support for India’s SCO presidency. Also discussed issues pertaining to G20 and BRICS. <a href="https://t.co/cgfhATd8D4">pic.twitter.com/cgfhATd8D4</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1654099905814863872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ukraine conflict dominated the talks, although it was not clear if trade talks were brought up. India has been incessantly importing cheap Russian oil since the war started in Ukraine, triggering concerns in New Delhi about the growing trade imbalance in Russia’s favour.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Standoff between India and China</strong></h2>

<p>India and China are locked in a territorial dispute for the last three years following a bloody clash in Galwan Valley in 2020. India, on several occasions, has made it clear that the ties between the two nations should be based on three mutuals: &nbsp;mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bilawal-bhutto-india-trip-for-sco-foreign-ministers-meet-this-is-what-he-said-before-departure-588796">Pakistan is committed to the SCO forum, says Bilawal Bhutto Zardari&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>China’s foreign minister to travel to Pakistan</strong></h2>

<p>China’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Qin Gang will travel to Pakistan after attending the two-day SCO foreign ministers’ meet in India’s Goa. Pakistan counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will also attend the event. He will be the first Pakistani foreign minister to visit India in nearly 12 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My decision to attend this meeting illustrates Pakistan’s strong commitment to the charter of SCO. I look forward to constructive discussions with my counterparts from friendly countries," he wrote in one of his tweets.</p>

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India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang Thursday on the sidelines of the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang Thursday on the sidelines of the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The Times of India reported that the ongoing border row along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh was the prime focus of the discussions held between the two leaders. Issues related to wider interactions and cooperation on international platforms like G20, SCO and BRICS were also discussed. A detailed discussion with State Councillor and FM Qin Gang of China on our bilateral relationship. Focus remains on resolving outstanding issues and ensuring peace and tranquillity in the border areas. Also discussed SCO, G20 and BRICS. pic.twitter.com/hxheaPnTqG — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 4, 2023 × Second meeting in the last two months The meeting between Jaishankar and Gang held Thursday was their second in the last two months. Gang visited India in March for G20 foreign ministers’ summit. During their last meeting, Jaishankar reportedly told Gang that India-China relations were "abnormal" because of the lingering border dispute. Watch: China bars two Indian journalists from returning to Beijing × The Jaishankar-Gang meeting comes just a week after the defence ministers of both nations met in New Delhi on the sidelines of a conclave of the SCO defence ministers. The meeting took place on April 27. Jaishankar also met Russian FM Lavrov Jaishnkar earlier met with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, where the leaders reportedly discussed global issues of mutual interest. Comprehensive review of our bilateral, global and multilateral cooperation with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. Appreciated Russia’s support for India’s SCO presidency. Also discussed issues pertaining to G20 and BRICS. pic.twitter.com/cgfhATd8D4 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 4, 2023 × Ukraine conflict dominated the talks, although it was not clear if trade talks were brought up. India has been incessantly importing cheap Russian oil since the war started in Ukraine, triggering concerns in New Delhi about the growing trade imbalance in Russia’s favour. Standoff between India and China India and China are locked in a territorial dispute for the last three years following a bloody clash in Galwan Valley in 2020. India, on several occasions, has made it clear that the ties between the two nations should be based on three mutuals: mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests. Also Read | Pakistan is committed to the SCO forum, says Bilawal Bhutto Zardari China’s foreign minister to travel to Pakistan China’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Qin Gang will travel to Pakistan after attending the two-day SCO foreign ministers’ meet in India’s Goa. Pakistan counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will also attend the event. He will be the first Pakistani foreign minister to visit India in nearly 12 years. "My decision to attend this meeting illustrates Pakistan’s strong commitment to the charter of SCO. I look forward to constructive discussions with my counterparts from friendly countries," he wrote in one of his tweets. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar raises border dispute with Chinese counterpart 

<p>Afghanistan and expansion of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) will be key focus at the grouping's heads-of-state-summit that will take place on Friday (September 17). The summit, being hosted by Tajikistan, will take place in its capital Dushanbe in a hybrid mode. The summit will see a meeting on Afghanistan in which SCO member countries will be present along with those part of Collective Security Treaty organisation (CSTO). The CSTO is an alliance of Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan</p>

<p>SCO summit-host Tajikistan shares a land border with Afghanistan and since Taliban takeover, raised its concerns publicly many times.</p>

<p>SCO grouping has 8 member states--Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and 4 central Asian countries--Tajikistan, &nbsp;Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. Afghanistan is an observer member country and situation in the country impacts many of the SCO countries directly, especially central Asian states who share border with it and fear a refugee influx.</p>

<p>One of the key outcomes of the summit will on expansion of the grouping with process to incorporate Iran and a full member set to start and number of countries in the gulf getting dialogue or observer status. Iran will get full membership after completion of due SCO legal process.</p>

<p>India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the SCO heads of state summit on Friday. PM is expected to address the meet between 11.30 am to 11.40 am after the welcome address by Tajik President Emomali Rahmon.</p>

<p>External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be representing India at the meet in person in Dushanbe. This is the 4th time India is participating in the summit as a full-fledged member state. India's key focus at the meet will expectedly be on counter-terror, economic cooperation and most significantly, Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "At the Summit, the leaders are expected to review the organization’s activities over the past two decades and discuss the state and prospects of future cooperation. Topical issues of regional and international importance are also expected to be discussed.'</p>

<p>On the sidelines of the meeting EAM will have number of bilateral meets including with his Tajik and Iranian counterparts. This will be the first in-person meet between EAM Jaishankar and Iran's new FM Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The heads of state and foreign minister will be arriving in the capital later today. EAM Jaishankar left for the city early on Thursday. On Friday, the summit will start around 11.30 am IST.</p>

<p>This Summit is significant as SCO celebrates 20th anniversary of its foundation in 2021 and Tajikistan marks 30 years of its independence. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Putin wil take part in this year's summit virtually, while Pakistani PM Imran Khan will be present in person. Last year, India chaired the 19th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) in virtual format.</p>


Afghanistan and expansion of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) will be key focus at the grouping's heads-of-state-summit that will take place on Friday (September 17).

Afghanistan and expansion of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) will be key focus at the grouping's heads-of-state-summit that will take place on Friday (September 17). The summit, being hosted by Tajikistan, will take place in its capital Dushanbe in a hybrid mode. The summit will see a meeting on Afghanistan in which SCO member countries will be present along with those part of Collective Security Treaty organisation (CSTO). The CSTO is an alliance of Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan SCO summit-host Tajikistan shares a land border with Afghanistan and since Taliban takeover, raised its concerns publicly many times. SCO grouping has 8 member states--Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and 4 central Asian countries--Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. Afghanistan is an observer member country and situation in the country impacts many of the SCO countries directly, especially central Asian states who share border with it and fear a refugee influx. One of the key outcomes of the summit will on expansion of the grouping with process to incorporate Iran and a full member set to start and number of countries in the gulf getting dialogue or observer status. Iran will get full membership after completion of due SCO legal process. India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the SCO heads of state summit on Friday. PM is expected to address the meet between 11.30 am to 11.40 am after the welcome address by Tajik President Emomali Rahmon. External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be representing India at the meet in person in Dushanbe. This is the 4th time India is participating in the summit as a full-fledged member state. India's key focus at the meet will expectedly be on counter-terror, economic cooperation and most significantly, Afghanistan. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "At the Summit, the leaders are expected to review the organization’s activities over the past two decades and discuss the state and prospects of future cooperation. Topical issues of regional and international importance are also expected to be discussed.' On the sidelines of the meeting EAM will have number of bilateral meets including with his Tajik and Iranian counterparts. This will be the first in-person meet between EAM Jaishankar and Iran's new FM Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The heads of state and foreign minister will be arriving in the capital later today. EAM Jaishankar left for the city early on Thursday. On Friday, the summit will start around 11.30 am IST. This Summit is significant as SCO celebrates 20th anniversary of its foundation in 2021 and Tajikistan marks 30 years of its independence. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Putin wil take part in this year's summit virtually, while Pakistani PM Imran Khan will be present in person. Last year, India chaired the 19th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) in virtual format.

Afghanistan, expansion key focus at SCO summit, PM Modi to address meet

<p>&nbsp;Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the meeting of the Council of Government (CHG) of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) here on Saturday.</p>

<p>He was received by the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov at the SCO meeting, according to the Office of the Raksha Mantri.</p>

<p>Singh had reached Tashkent on a three-day visit on November 1.</p>

<p>He paid floral tributes at the statue of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on Shastri Street here.</p>

<p>The former leader had passed away in Tashkent on January 11, 1966.</p>

<p>Defence Minister also visited the Shastri Memorial School here and interacted with the students studying there.</p>

<p>He also signed the Visitors Book at the school in which he paid tributes to Shastri.</p>

<p>Apart from participating in the SCO meeting, he will also hold bilateral engagements with Uzbekistan.&nbsp;</p>


Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the meeting of the Council of Government (CHG) of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) here on Saturday. He was received by the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov at the SCO meeting, according to the Office of the Raksha Mantri.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the meeting of the Council of Government (CHG) of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) here on Saturday. He was received by the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov at the SCO meeting, according to the Office of the Raksha Mantri. Singh had reached Tashkent on a three-day visit on November 1. He paid floral tributes at the statue of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on Shastri Street here. The former leader had passed away in Tashkent on January 11, 1966. Defence Minister also visited the Shastri Memorial School here and interacted with the students studying there. He also signed the Visitors Book at the school in which he paid tributes to Shastri. Apart from participating in the SCO meeting, he will also hold bilateral engagements with Uzbekistan.

Rajnath Singh attends  Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting in Tashkent

<p>Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid emphasis on economic cooperation during his remarks at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting here on Saturday.</p>

<p>"Economic cooperation is the foundation of cementing the future of our people and ensuring them a better life. It is of critical importance to us," Singh told the gathered leaders in Tashkent.</p>

<p>He highlighted that unilateralism and protectionism had not worked.</p>

<p>"In this context, India remains committed to a transparent, rules-based, open, inclusive and non-discriminatory multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organisation at its center," the Defence Minister said, reiterating India`s long-held stand.</p>

<p>He was received by the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov at the SCO meeting, according to the Office of the Raksha Mantri. Singh reached Tashkent for a three-day visit on November 1.</p>

<p>He paid floral tributes at the statue of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on Shastri Street here.</p>

<p>The former leader had passed away in Tashkent on January 11, 1966.</p>

<p>The Defence Minister also visited the Shastri Memorial School here and interacted with the students studying there. He also signed the Visitors Book at the school in which he paid tribute to Shastri.</p>

<p>Apart from participating in the SCO meeting, he will also hold bilateral engagements with Uzbekistan.</p>


Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid emphasis on economic cooperation during his remarks at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting here on Saturday. "Economic cooperation is the foundation of cementing the future of our people and ensuring them a better life.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid emphasis on economic cooperation during his remarks at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting here on Saturday. "Economic cooperation is the foundation of cementing the future of our people and ensuring them a better life. It is of critical importance to us," Singh told the gathered leaders in Tashkent. He highlighted that unilateralism and protectionism had not worked. "In this context, India remains committed to a transparent, rules-based, open, inclusive and non-discriminatory multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organisation at its center," the Defence Minister said, reiterating India`s long-held stand. He was received by the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov at the SCO meeting, according to the Office of the Raksha Mantri. Singh reached Tashkent for a three-day visit on November 1. He paid floral tributes at the statue of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on Shastri Street here. The former leader had passed away in Tashkent on January 11, 1966. The Defence Minister also visited the Shastri Memorial School here and interacted with the students studying there. He also signed the Visitors Book at the school in which he paid tribute to Shastri. Apart from participating in the SCO meeting, he will also hold bilateral engagements with Uzbekistan.

Rajnath Singh lays emphasis on economic cooperation at SCO meeting in Tashkent

<p>Terming bioterrorism as a "contagious plague," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-not-rest-even-for-a-day-in-100-days-work-done-is-incredible-rajnath-singh-248480">Defence Minister Rajnath Singh</a> on Thursday said that it was a real threat the world was facing today and asked the armed forces to be in the forefront of combating the menace.</p>

<p>Inaugurating the first-ever conference of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) countries on Military Medicine here, he also called upon the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) of SCO countries to devise ways to effectively deal with new threats posed to soldiers by the ever-advancing battlefield technology.</p>

<p>"The threat of nuclear, chemical and biological warfare adds to the complexity of the existing challenges and AFMS plays a vital role in identifying those challenges, defining the limits of human tolerance and suggesting strategies to mitigate the adverse health effects," he said.</p>

<p>Underlining the importance of building capabilities to deal with the menace of bioterrorism, the defence minister&nbsp;termed it as a real threat the world is facing today.</p>

<p>"The bio-terrorism is a `contagious plague`. The armed forces should be at the forefront of combating the menace," he said.</p>

<p>He asked the AFMS to have a clear, effective and rehearsed protocol with respect to casualty management strategies and said the protocols and strategies need to be devised taking into account not just the peculiarities of the operating environment and the nature of operations, but also competence and capabilities of AFMS.</p>

<p>Suggesting co-operation among countries during disasters to ensure that timely assistance reaches those in need even across international borders, he said the scale of magnitude of destruction following disasters can often overwhelm the resources and relief efforts of a nation and the medical services of Armed Forces form a vital component of humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations.</p>

<p>Identifying "Patient Safety" as another area which needs to be further strengthened, Singh stressed on the need for awareness on healthy practices of patient safety that will greatly enhance the combat effectiveness of military services.</p>

<p>"Patient safety does not end at making correct diagnosis and prescribing correct medication. Dispensing that prescribed medicine to the correct patient via the correct method plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of patients," he said.</p>

<p>The Defence Minister said SCO is the "alliance of the East", due to its growing centrality in Asia-Pacific and described it as the primary security pillar in the region.</p>

<p>"SCO is the largest regional organisation in the world in terms of geographical coverage and population. It covers 22 per cent of the landmass, 40 per cent population and contribute to 20 per cent of world`s GDP," he said.</p>

<p>Singh said India has been making positive contribution to SCO and actively participated in Ex Peace Mission in Russia.</p>

<p>Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said, evolving technology translates into more and more complex casualties and therefore, it is imperative that AFMS keeps pace with technology and expertise.</p>


Terming bioterrorism as a "contagious plague," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that it was a real threat the world was facing today and asked the armed forces to be in the forefront of combating the menace.

Terming bioterrorism as a "contagious plague," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that it was a real threat the world was facing today and asked the armed forces to be in the forefront of combating the menace. Inaugurating the first-ever conference of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) countries on Military Medicine here, he also called upon the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) of SCO countries to devise ways to effectively deal with new threats posed to soldiers by the ever-advancing battlefield technology. "The threat of nuclear, chemical and biological warfare adds to the complexity of the existing challenges and AFMS plays a vital role in identifying those challenges, defining the limits of human tolerance and suggesting strategies to mitigate the adverse health effects," he said. Underlining the importance of building capabilities to deal with the menace of bioterrorism, the defence minister termed it as a real threat the world is facing today. "The bio-terrorism is a `contagious plague`. The armed forces should be at the forefront of combating the menace," he said. He asked the AFMS to have a clear, effective and rehearsed protocol with respect to casualty management strategies and said the protocols and strategies need to be devised taking into account not just the peculiarities of the operating environment and the nature of operations, but also competence and capabilities of AFMS. Suggesting co-operation among countries during disasters to ensure that timely assistance reaches those in need even across international borders, he said the scale of magnitude of destruction following disasters can often overwhelm the resources and relief efforts of a nation and the medical services of Armed Forces form a vital component of humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations. Identifying "Patient Safety" as another area which needs to be further strengthened, Singh stressed on the need for awareness on healthy practices of patient safety that will greatly enhance the combat effectiveness of military services. "Patient safety does not end at making correct diagnosis and prescribing correct medication. Dispensing that prescribed medicine to the correct patient via the correct method plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of patients," he said. The Defence Minister said SCO is the "alliance of the East", due to its growing centrality in Asia-Pacific and described it as the primary security pillar in the region. "SCO is the largest regional organisation in the world in terms of geographical coverage and population. It covers 22 per cent of the landmass, 40 per cent population and contribute to 20 per cent of world`s GDP," he said. Singh said India has been making positive contribution to SCO and actively participated in Ex Peace Mission in Russia. Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said, evolving technology translates into more and more complex casualties and therefore, it is imperative that AFMS keeps pace with technology and expertise.

Armed forces need to be in forefront to tackle bioterrorism: Defence minister Rajnath Singh

<p>A day ahead of declaration of Lok Sabha election&nbsp;results, China said it's ready to work with the new government in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday. It is during this meet, Wang Yi expressed his country's desire to work with the soon to be elected new Government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both sides also agreed on the implementation of the Wuhan informal summit goals. A tweet by the ministry of external affairs said, "Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding, reached during Wuhan Summit". As part of Wuhan understanding, both leaders gave "strategic guidance" to their respective militaries to strengthen communication in order to build trust.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges<br />
<br />
EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> met Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi on the sidelines of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCO</a> Foreign Minister's Meeting in Bishkek. Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding reached during Wuhan Summit. <a href="https://t.co/apfo2sEv9D">pic.twitter.com/apfo2sEv9D</a></p>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1131124148355383296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Both sides also discussed how to celebrate the 70th year anniversary of India-China relations. On 1 April 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the first meeting between both the ministers after listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist at the United Nation. China prevented the listing of Azhar, the chief of Pakistan based United nations listed terror group--Jaish-e-Mohammad since 2009. On May 1, it finally relented, paving the way for his listing leading to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze on him.</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times in 2018 starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan. The Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India for the second informal summit this year.</p>


A day ahead of declaration of Lok Sabha election results, China said it's ready to work with the new government in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday.

A day ahead of declaration of Lok Sabha election results, China said it's ready to work with the new government in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday. It is during this meet, Wang Yi expressed his country's desire to work with the soon to be elected new Government. Both sides also agreed on the implementation of the Wuhan informal summit goals. A tweet by the ministry of external affairs said, "Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding, reached during Wuhan Summit". As part of Wuhan understanding, both leaders gave "strategic guidance" to their respective militaries to strengthen communication in order to build trust. Continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges EAM @SushmaSwaraj met Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi on the sidelines of #SCO Foreign Minister's Meeting in Bishkek. Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding reached during Wuhan Summit. pic.twitter.com/apfo2sEv9D — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) May 22, 2019 × Both sides also discussed how to celebrate the 70th year anniversary of India-China relations. On 1 April 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. This is the first meeting between both the ministers after listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist at the United Nation. China prevented the listing of Azhar, the chief of Pakistan based United nations listed terror group--Jaish-e-Mohammad since 2009. On May 1, it finally relented, paving the way for his listing leading to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze on him. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times in 2018 starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan. The Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India for the second informal summit this year.

Ready to work with new government in India: Chinese foreign minister 

India will become the permanent member of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) during the organisation&rsquo;s two-day summit meeting beginning in Uzbekistan&#39;s capital Tashkent today.<br />
<br />
For the membership, India will sign a memorandum of obligation.<br />
<br />
Talking to media, Uzbekistan&#39;s deputy minister of foreign affairs, Anvar Nasirov said Uzbekistan, within the framework of its presidency at the SCO, has paid great attention to India&#39;s admission to the organisation.<br />
<br />
He said, at a meeting in Ufa last year, heads of member states took the decision to include India as a full member.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Nasirov said the process will be completed in the forthcoming meeting.<br />
<br />
At present Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are permanent members of SCO.<br />
<br />
The organisation aims at strengthening friendly relations amongst member states and maintaining peace, stability and security in the region.<br />
<br />
It promotes co-operation in combating terrorism and the menace of narcotic substances.<br />
<br />
According to reports, on so many occasions, the organisation has seen friction and distrust among the member states, but India&rsquo;s inclusion in the group is likely to lift its influence in the international arena.<br />
<br />
India&#39;s inclusion in the group will expand the territory of the organisation and it will nearly account for 80 per cent of the Eurasian continent and will have a population of 2.7 billion, more than one third of world&#39;s population.<br />
<br />
While expansion may hinder the organisation&rsquo;s ability to act decisively, it will give SCO the opportunity to transform into a more comprehensive institution capable of converting and integrating a broad swath of Asia.<br />
<br />
The expansion of SCO would infuse fresh vigour into the group&#39;s future development and boost its influence and appeal in the international arena.<br />
<br />
Addition of India will increase block&#39;s political and economic potential and improve its ability to counter pressing regional challenges.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, smaller SCO members concerned of being squeezed by two dominant partners in the group, the interest of two superpowers, see the inclusion of India as an opportunity to diversify and build new partnerships.<br />
<br />
(ANI)

The organisation currently has Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan as its permanent members

India will become the permanent member of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) during the organisation’s two-day summit meeting beginning in Uzbekistan's capital Tashkent today. For the membership, India will sign a memorandum of obligation. Talking to media, Uzbekistan's deputy minister of foreign affairs, Anvar Nasirov said Uzbekistan, within the framework of its presidency at the SCO, has paid great attention to India's admission to the organisation. He said, at a meeting in Ufa last year, heads of member states took the decision to include India as a full member. Nasirov said the process will be completed in the forthcoming meeting. At present Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are permanent members of SCO. The organisation aims at strengthening friendly relations amongst member states and maintaining peace, stability and security in the region. It promotes co-operation in combating terrorism and the menace of narcotic substances. According to reports, on so many occasions, the organisation has seen friction and distrust among the member states, but India’s inclusion in the group is likely to lift its influence in the international arena. India's inclusion in the group will expand the territory of the organisation and it will nearly account for 80 per cent of the Eurasian continent and will have a population of 2.7 billion, more than one third of world's population. While expansion may hinder the organisation’s ability to act decisively, it will give SCO the opportunity to transform into a more comprehensive institution capable of converting and integrating a broad swath of Asia. The expansion of SCO would infuse fresh vigour into the group's future development and boost its influence and appeal in the international arena. Addition of India will increase block's political and economic potential and improve its ability to counter pressing regional challenges. Meanwhile, smaller SCO members concerned of being squeezed by two dominant partners in the group, the interest of two superpowers, see the inclusion of India as an opportunity to diversify and build new partnerships. (ANI)

India to become permanent member of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation during two-day summit in Uzbekistan today