Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
Full Form of SCO
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.