BEIJING
The recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit highlighted a stark contrast in diplomatic fortunes for India and Pakistan. While Pakistan secured a significant diplomatic victory, India found itself increasingly isolated, failing to garner support for its key positions and even refusing to sign the joint declaration—an unusual move signaling its discontent.
One of India’s major setbacks at the summit was its inability to link the Poonch incident—a recent attack on Indian security forces—to Pakistan in the SCO’s joint declaration. Despite its efforts, no other member state backed India’s stance, leaving it diplomatically stranded. Sources indicate that India’s refusal to sign the final declaration was an attempt to mask its frustration over this failure.
This isolation was further evident when the SCO collectively condemned Israel’s aggression against Iran, a move supported by all member states except India. New Delhi’s divergent stance on the issue underscored its growing disconnect with the regional bloc, which includes close partners of both Russia and China.
In contrast, Pakistan emerged from the summit in a stronger position. Its diplomatic efforts ensured that India’s attempts to internationalize the Poonch issue were rebuffed. Additionally, Pakistan aligned smoothly with the SCO’s consensus on regional security matters, including the condemnation of Israeli actions in the Middle East. The SCO’s unified stance on these issues suggests that India’s influence within the group is waning, while Pakistan and other members continue to strengthen their coordination. This development is particularly significant given the SCO’s role as a key platform for Eurasian security and economic cooperation.
India’s diplomatic isolation at the SCO summit raises questions about its foreign policy strategy in the region. With ties strained with China and a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, New Delhi risks alienating itself further from key multilateral forums. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s ability to navigate the SCO’s dynamics demonstrates its growing diplomatic leverage, particularly with China’s backing.
The SCO summit has made it clear that India is struggling to maintain its diplomatic influence within the organization, while Pakistan has successfully consolidated its position. As geopolitical tensions in the region intensify, India’s inability to rally support on critical issues could have long-term repercussions for its standing in Eurasian diplomacy. For now, the SCO’s latest meeting has left India on the sidelines—a stark reminder of the shifting power dynamics in the region. — DNA
