Astana: Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane represented India at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting held in Astana, Kazakhstan. The meeting convened on April 26, 2024, and witnessed the participation of Defence Ministers from all SCO Member States, marking a crucial moment for regional cooperation and dialogue.
During the meeting, a significant protocol was signed by the Defence Ministers of all SCO Member States, underscoring their collective commitment to enhancing security and cooperation within the region. A Joint Communique, issued following the meeting, outlined various initiatives and agreements reached among the Member States, reflecting their shared vision for the future of the SCO.
One notable initiative highlighted in the Joint Communique was the development of the concept of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’. Rooted in the ancient Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, this concept embodies the principles of unity, inclusivity, and global interconnectedness, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and cooperation among nations.
Defence Secretary Aramane, in his address at the meeting, reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to promoting peace, stability, and security in the SCO region. He stressed the imperative of adopting a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism in all its forms, recognizing it as a significant threat to the prosperity and development of SCO Member States.
Furthermore, Defence Secretary Aramane highlighted India’s longstanding proposal for a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing this global menace. He also underscored India’s vision of ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’, which advocates for inclusive and sustainable development in the Indo-Pacific region.