Question.
"The virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO" In light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating the problems.
(UPSC 2023 General Studies Paper 2 (Main) Exam, Answer in 150 words)
Answer.
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a political, economic, and security alliance of 9 ( nine) countries, which was formed in 2001. The nine member countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) are Russia, China, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, and Pakistan. India and Pakistan joined SCO in 2017 ( Astana Summit of SCO).
"The virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)" means, the organization is not functioning properly due to the conflict between member countries.
The following are conflicts affecting the functioning of the SCO:
Border dispute between Member States:
The following are major border disputes between the member countries-
Border dispute between India and Pakistan over Jammu and Kashmir.
Border dispute between India and China over Aksai Chin and Doklam issue.
The border dispute between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.
Power rivalries:
India and China's hegemony over power. India also has not participated in the Belt and Road Initiative ( BRI) of China.
Instability in the region:
Taliban rule in Afghanistan.
There is conflict in Central Asian Countries over energy and mineral resources.
Role of India in resolving conflicts:
Economic and Cultural Cooperations:
India promotes economic partnership and cultural exchange among the SCO member countries, which will increase mutual understanding which can reduce tensions, and build trust among member states.
India gave "HEALTH" acronyms for strengthening cooperation among SCO members.
H: Health care cooperation.
E: Economic Cooperation
A: Alternate Energy
L: Literature and Culture exchange
T: Terrorism free Society
H: Humanitarian Cooperation
Diplomatic Engagement:
India actively engages in diplomatic efforts within the SCO framework to address conflicts and promote regional stability.
"Track II dialogue" between India and China has given positive outcomes for solving conflicts.
Counter Terrorism Cooperation:
India collaborates with SCO member states to solve the common threats of terrorism. Sharing intelligence and coordinating efforts to counter-terrorism is a crucial aspect of mitigating conflicts.
In Summary, the effectiveness of India's role in mitigating conflicts within the SCO depends on the specific geopolitical dynamics, regional issues, and the willingness of all member states to collaborate. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) provides a framework for diplomatic efforts and India's role is aligned with the organization's goals of promoting regional security and stability.
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