Full Form of SCO

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SCOstands for

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

What is SCO?

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a permanent intergovernmental international alliance established in 2001 by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. It focuses on promoting mutual trust and neighbourly relations among member states, enhancing regional security through cooperation on counter-terrorism, extremism, and separatism, and fostering economic, cultural, and humanitarian ties. India became a full member in 2017, significantly expanding the organisation's reach and diversity. In the Indian context, the SCO serves as a vital platform for engaging with Central Asia and Russia on issues like Afghanistan, connectivity projects (e.g., International North-South Transport Corridor), and energy security. The organisation holds annual summits, council meetings, and joint military exercises such as 'Peace Mission'. Its Secretariat is in Beijing, and its Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) is based in Tashkent. For competitive exams like UPSC, the SCO is highly relevant under international relations, especially regarding India's 'Act East' and 'Connect Central Asia' policies. Understanding its role in balancing China's influence and countering terrorism is crucial for aspirants.

SCO का फुल फॉर्म

शंघाई सहयोग संगठन

Example

India hosted the virtual SCO Summit in 2020, focusing on cooperation to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen regional security.

SCO — frequently asked questions

What is the full form of SCO?
The full form of SCO is the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance.
When did India become a member of the SCO?
India officially became a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in June 2017 at the Astana Summit.
What are the main objectives of the SCO?
The main objectives of the SCO include strengthening mutual trust and good-neighbourly relations, promoting effective cooperation in political, trade, economic, and cultural fields, and jointly combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
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