The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO Summit 2025) is making waves — and rightly so. Held in Tianjin, China, this year’s summit isn’t just about handshakes and group photos. It’s about tough conversations, strong stances, and a chance for countries like India to be heard loud and clear.

If you’ve been following the headlines, you know this isn’t just another diplomatic gathering. From India’s fierce stand against terrorism to the growing power play between China, Pakistan, and Iran — the dynamics are real, raw, and worth diving into.

Let’s break down what’s happening, why it matters, and what India is bringing to the table.

What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organization?

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was set up back in 2001 to boost security and economic cooperation among Eurasian nations. Fast forward to 2025, and it’s now a powerhouse group with 10 member countries including India, Russia, and the recently added Belarus.

Who all are part of the SCO Club?

The SCO’s a diverse crew, and each member brings something unique:

• China: The big boss, pushing digital trade and regional influence.
• Russia: Wants the SCO to counter Western alliances, with a big meeting planned in Moscow this November.
• India: All about fighting terrorism and opening trade routes.
• Pakistan: Focused on China ties and dodging terrorism blame.
• Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan): Looking for economic growth and stability.
• Iran and Belarus: New kids on the block, expanding their regional clout.

Add in observers like Afghanistan and partners like Turkey, and you’ve got a group that’s shaping Asia’s future.

Why This SCO Summit 2025 Is a Big Deal?

Together, these nations cover nearly half of the world’s population and a major chunk of global GDP. In short — what happens at the SCO Summit doesn’t stay at the SCO. It impacts trade, security, and stability across Asia and beyond.

This year, the SCO Summit is the largest ever—tons of countries, more delegates, and incredibly high expectations. Here’s the buzz:

• Historic Attendance: More countries and organizations than ever
• Host Ambitions: China wants to strengthen unity and shared progress
• Tough Conversations: Ongoing India-Pakistan and India-China tensions bring real stakes

Who All Are Attending This Year’s SCO Summit?

China is hosting the big event in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, 2025. But the buzz started much earlier with foreign ministers and defence leaders gathering mid-July to lay the groundwork.

Confirmed attendees include:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi
• President Xi Jinping (China)
• President Vladimir Putin (Russia)
• PM Shehbaz Sharif (Pakistan)
• Leaders from Iran, Belarus, and other member countries

What’s Lighting Up the Agenda at the SCO Summit?

1. Tackling Terrorism

India is demanding serious action against terrorism, especially after the Pahalgam attack in Jammu & Kashmir. The SCO Summit becomes the stage for this call as S Jaishankar SCO Summit statements get broad attention.

2. Regional Security and Borders

The SCO Summit is discussing border respect and regional peace. Narendra Modi SCO Summit participation could shape critical directions for future India-China and India-Pakistan ties.

3. Trade and Tech

Deals on digital economy, cyber security, fintech, and infrastructure are in focus as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization members look for ways to collaborate and drive mutual growth.

4. People-to-People Bridges

More cultural exchange, increased tourism, and friendlier regional ties are all major talking points.

5. Sustainability for the Future

Climate change, Smart jobs and green growth are idea starters this year for the SCO Summit.

India’s Strong Message: Zero Tolerance for Terror

“India came in with a clear goal — no more soft-pedalling on terrorism.” External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar made it crystal clear. Speaking at the Foreign Ministers’ meet in July, he strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir that left over 26 civilians dead. While he didn’t name Pakistan directly, the message was unmistakable.

“Terrorism is terrorism — and those who enable it will be held responsible.”

India is pushing hard for stronger anti-terror action through SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS). Enough with just talking — India wants results.

Narendra Modi SCO Summit - Rumors are strong that Prime Minister Modi could make his first trip to China since 2019, adding even more significance to this year’s summit. His presence would signal India’s intent to stay assertive and influential.

India and Pakistan: Old Tensions, New Flashpoints

While India kept things diplomatic, the tension with Pakistan was hard to ignore. India even refused to sign a joint statement at an earlier defence meet because it didn’t mention the Pahalgam attack. That’s not a minor move — it shows just how serious India is about keeping terror on the agenda.

Pakistan’s response? Vague commitments to “ceasefire and peace.” But no direct answers on cross-border terrorism.

China’s Role: Host, Mediator, Power Player

China, as the host, is walking a tightrope. It wants to show leadership, promote unity, and push its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) — but it also has close ties with Pakistan, which complicates things.

President Xi Jinping spoke about the need for unity and regional stability. But for India, actions speak louder than words. And there’s growing concern over how China balances its dual roles as peacemaker and strategic ally of Pakistan.

Iran, Russia & the Changing World Order

With Iran now a full SCO member, it’s looking to shake off isolation and deepen its ties with China and Russia. During the summit, Iran’s foreign minister held bilateral talks to expand trade and defence cooperation.

Russia, meanwhile, sees the SCO Summit as a lifeline amidst Western sanctions and global isolation. It’s strengthening ties within the bloc to counterbalance NATO influence.

What Else is Being Discussed?

Apart from terrorism, SCO leaders are diving into:

• Cybersecurity - protecting digital infrastructure from cross-border threats
• Climate action - finding ways to collaborate on sustainability
• Trade & transit - making supply chains smoother and more regional
• Tourism & culture - boosting people-to-people connections

India is especially focused on digital collaboration, green growth, and securing its strategic interests.

Why This SCO Summit Matters for India

India doesn’t just want a seat at the table — it wants a voice that counts.

The 2025 SCO Summit gives India the platform to:

• Call out double standards on terrorism
• Strengthen ties with Central Asia
• Shape digital and trade policies within the region
• Push for genuine, actionable security frameworks

Narendra Modi’s SCO Summit presence symbolizes India’s intent to lead, not just participate. With S. Jaishankar’s SCO Summit remarks making headlines, it’s clear India is done playing nice when it comes to national security.

India is no longer okay with symbolic gestures. It’s calling for real change, real action, and real accountability.

Final Thoughts: What’s Next?

The SCO Summit 2025 is more than just speeches and selfies. It’s a reflection of the new power dynamics in Asia and beyond.

India’s approach? Firm, focused, and fearless. By demanding concrete steps against terror and advocating for equitable partnerships, India is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the region’s future.

As we head toward the September Heads of State Summit, all eyes are on Modi’s potential China trip and the final SCO declaration. India’s pushing hard for a tough stance on terrorism, and we’re watching to see if China’s trade platform gains traction. Russia’s November meeting will keep the momentum going. For India, it’s about keeping the pressure on terrorism and opening doors to Central Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the SCO Summit 2025 all about?
The SCO Summit 2025 is a multilateral meet in Tianjin, China, focusing on regional security, anti-terrorism, trade, and cooperation among member nations.

Q2. How is India participating in the SCO Summit 2025?
India, represented by PM Narendra Modi and EAM S. Jaishankar, is pushing for concrete anti-terror measures and voicing strong concerns over regional threats.

Q3. What was S. Jaishankar’s statement at the SCO Summit?
Jaishankar strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and emphasized that the SCO must take uncompromising action against state-sponsored terrorism.

Q4. What are the key takeaways from Narendra Modi’s SCO Summit participation?
Modi’s presence highlights India’s push for strategic leadership, security cooperation, and resistance to diluted anti-terror narratives within the bloc.

Q5. Why is the SCO Summit important for India?
The SCO Summit allows India to engage on regional security, digital trade, and counterterrorism while countering alliances like China-Pakistan within the bloc.

Reference

• https://www.visionias.in/blog/current-affairs/sco-summit-2025-indias-bold-stand-against-terrorism-reshapes-regional-diplomacy
• https://www.deccanherald.com/india/take-uncompromising-stand-jaishankar-as-india-pakistan-spar-over-pahalgam-attack-at-china-hosted-sco-meet-3631977
• https://www.livemint.com/news/india/pm-modi-may-visit-china-for-sco-summit-next-month-first-visit-since-2019-report-11752643544188.html
• https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/wjbzhd/202507/t20250716_11671556.html