Regional Cooperation in the Eurasian Region: Role of SCO

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) holds promise as a viable institution, but the presence of regional disputes, especially between India and Pakistan, can hinder its effectiveness. Moreover, India’s unyielding approach and its history of handling SAARC affairs raise concerns about India possibly leveraging the SCO for its gains again. However, given China’s considerable economic influence, there is optimism that it could play a stabilizing role within the organization. India hosted the SCO Summit on July 4, 2023, which revolved around the key themes of security, connectivity, cooperation, development, and economics. This policy brief evaluates the summit’s outcomes and assesses the SCO’s significance for fostering regional stability, economic development, and connectivity in the Eurasian region, with a particular focus on Pakistan.