'Good Neighbourliness Missing': Jaishankar's Strong Message to China, Pakistan at SCO

New Delhi: In a thinly veiled reference to both China and Pakistan , External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar underscored the obstacles terrorism poses to regional cooperation while emphasizing the importance of respecting territorial integrity in connectivity initiatives. Speaking at a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conclave chaired by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Jaishankar called for introspection on "good neighbourliness" amid India’s tense relations with both Pakistan and China.

"If friendship has fallen short and good neighbourliness is missing somewhere, there are surely reasons to introspect and causes to address," Jaishankar said, as he addressed the gathering, which included Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

"Territorial Integrity Must Be Recognized in Connectivity"

Jaishankar stressed the need for trade and connectivity initiatives to respect sovereignty, asserting that an "honest conversation" on the lack of trust among member nations is essential for progress.

In remarks widely interpreted as directed toward Pakistan , Jaishankar said, "If activities across borders are characterised by terrorism, extremism and separatism, they are hardly likely to encourage trade, energy flows, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges in parallel." He also highlighted how such activities undermine efforts to build trust and cooperation.

Ahead of the summit’s deliberations, PM Sharif welcomed Jaishankar and other SCO leaders at the Jinnah Convention Centre, where Jaishankar expressed his appreciation on social media, stating: "Departing from Islamabad. Thank PM @CMShehbaz, DPM & FM @MIshaqDar50 and the Government of Pakistan for the hospitality and courtesies."

Mutual Respect and Sovereign Equality as Foundations for Cooperation

The external affairs minister emphasized that cooperation within the SCO must be based on mutual respect and sovereign equality, and that collective trust is essential for the grouping’s future success.

"It should recognise territorial integrity and sovereignty. It must be built on genuine partnerships, not unilateral agendas. It cannot progress if we cherry-pick global practices, especially of trade and transit," Jaishankar remarked, in what many saw as an indirect critique of China’s assertiveness.

He reiterated that development requires peace and stability and that the SCO Charter clearly outlines the need to counter terrorism, separatism, and extremism.

Call for Introspection on "Good Neighbourliness"

Jaishankar reflected on the necessity of self-examination, questioning if "good neighbourliness" is missing somewhere and whether the lack of trust between nations is impeding cooperation.

"If trust is lacking or cooperation inadequate, if the friendship has fallen short and good neighbourliness is missing somewhere, there are surely reasons to introspect and causes to address," he said, urging member nations to reaffirm their commitment to the SCO Charter to realize the benefits of collective progress.

India’s Key Takeaways from the SCO Conclave

In a post on ‘X,’ Jaishankar outlined eight key takeaways for India from the conclave. These included incorporating digital public infrastructure (DPI) and digital transformation into the SCO framework, developing dialogue around the concept of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future,' and promoting balanced connectivity projects based on international law.

Additionally, he emphasized upholding a rules-based, non-discriminatory, open, fair, inclusive, and transparent multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) at its core. He also stressed that addressing the challenge of debt is a serious concern for developing nations.

Jaishankar Urges for Reformed Multilateralism

Discussing global institutions, Jaishankar highlighted the need for 'reformed multilateralism' and called for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council, both in its permanent and non-permanent categories, to ensure it becomes more representative, inclusive, and efficient.

"The SCO must be in the lead of advocating such change, not hold back on a matter of such importance," he asserted, urging the SCO to spearhead reforms in global governance.

Global Challenges and Technology’s Dual Role

Jaishankar also touched upon various global challenges, including the ongoing conflicts, the aftershocks of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the rising impacts of climate change.

"We meet at a difficult time in world affairs. Two major conflicts are underway, each with its own global repercussions. The Covid pandemic has left many in the developing world deeply devastated," he noted.

He added that "disruptions of various kinds – ranging from extreme climate events to supply chain uncertainties and financial volatility – are impacting growth and development." Regarding technology, he acknowledged its potential while also cautioning about the new concerns it raises: "Technology holds great promise, as well as raising a new host of concerns."

(With PTI Inputs)