Iran Becomes Full Member of SCO: Key Highlights from the India-Hosted Summit

Iran has officially become a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during an India-hosted virtual summit of the influential grouping. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the people of Iran on this significant occasion.

Prime Minister Modi’s Congratulations:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the people of Iran on Iran’s full membership in the SCO. He also welcomed Belarus’ SCO membership, as indicated by the signing of the Memorandum of Obligations.

The Significance of SCO Membership:

PM Modi highlighted the growing interest of other countries in joining the SCO, emphasizing the organization’s importance. The interest shown by nations to become part of the SCO demonstrates the organization’s relevance and influence on regional and global affairs.

India’s Role as the Summit Host:

As the current chair of the SCO, India hosted the summit. Prime Minister Modi chaired the virtual meeting, which included the participation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and other leaders from SCO member states.

President Raisi’s Vision for SCO Membership:

President Raisi expressed his hopes that Iran’s inclusion in the SCO would serve as a platform for achieving collective security, sustainable development, and fostering unity among member countries.

Historical Significance of Iran’s Admission:

A declaration issued at the conclusion of the summit highlighted the historical significance of Iran’s admission as a full member state of the SCO. This acknowledgment underscores Iran’s strategic importance and its contributions to the organization’s goals and objectives.

Belarus’ Membership Advancement:

The declaration also noted the importance of the signing of the Memorandum of Obligations by Belarus to achieve the status of an SCO member state. Belarus is taking steps towards becoming a full member, further expanding the SCO’s influence and reach.

Key Points about the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO):

1. Establishment: The SCO was founded in 2001 at a summit in Shanghai, China, by the presidents of Russia, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

2. Membership Expansion: India and Pakistan became permanent members of the SCO in 2017, further expanding the organization’s reach and influence.
3. Iran’s Full Membership: During an India-hosted virtual summit, Iran officially became a full member of the SCO. This move highlights Iran’s strategic importance and its commitment to cooperation within the organization.

4. Belarus’ Membership Progress: The summit also acknowledged the signing of the Memorandum of Obligations by Belarus, a step towards achieving full membership in the SCO. Belarus’ potential accession further strengthens the organization.

5. Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS): RATS is a specialized body within the SCO that coordinates and facilitates intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism operations among member states.

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