India became a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in 2017
In a significant diplomatic engagement, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar will represent India at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit scheduled to be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, on July 3-4, 2024.

This was announced by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during the weekly media briefing on Friday (June 28, 2024).

Prime Minister Narendra had earlier conveyed his full support for the success of the upcoming SCO Summit in Astana, expressing confidence in Kazakhstan’s leadership to enhance regional cooperation. 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on June 25, 2024, Prime Minister Modi stated, "Had a good conversation with President of Kazakhstan H.E. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Thanked him for warm wishes on the success in the elections. Reiterated the commitment to advance our Strategic Partnership with Kazakhstan. Conveyed India's full support for the success of the upcoming SCO Summit."

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a political, economic, and security organization founded in 2001. The founding members include China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. India, along with Pakistan, became full members in 2017, marking a significant expansion of the organization's reach and influence.

The SCO aims to promote cooperation in various fields including security, trade, economy, and cultural exchange. It has evolved into a major platform for regional dialogue and cooperation, addressing challenges such as terrorism, separatism, and extremism, while also fostering economic collaboration.

India hosted the Summit of the SCO Heads of State on July 4, 2023 after taking over the rotating Presidency at the 2022 Summit held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
 
India's association with the SCO began in 2005 as an Observer country. India became a full Member State of SCO at the 17th SCO Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan in June 2017, which was attended by Prime Minister Modi.

As EAM Jaishankar represents India at the upcoming SCO Summit, the focus will be on continuing the momentum of cooperation and dialogue established during India’s Chairmanship. The summit in Astana is expected to address critical regional issues and enhance collaboration in areas such as security, economic development, and cultural exchange.

India remains dedicated to contributing positively to the SCO’s objectives, leveraging its strategic partnerships and regional influence to foster a more secure and prosperous Eurasian region. The outcomes of the Astana summit will likely shape the future trajectory of the SCO, with India playing a pivotal role in its ongoing evolution and success.