Islamabad
India has once again expressed its strong opposition to China’s ‘One Belt One Road’ (OBOR) project during a recent meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Islamabad. While other member countries, including Russia, Iran, and Pakistan, supported OBOR, India maintained its stance against the initiative.
The SCO’s joint statement acknowledged the ongoing efforts of several member nations to implement OBOR, which aims to connect the Eurasian Economic Union with the project. However, India’s concerns are largely due to the inclusion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a part of OBOR that passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, raising significant geopolitical issues for India.
During the meeting, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the risks associated with OBOR, particularly the increasing debt burdens faced by countries involved in these projects. He emphasized the need for alternative approaches, stating that ‘collaborative connectivity can create new efficiencies.’
The meeting also discussed broader regional cooperation, with plans for a ‘Greater Eurasian Partnership’ that would link the SCO, the Eurasian Economic Union, and ASEAN countries.
The leaders at the summit, chaired by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts for economic and social stability in the region. They reiterated their commitment to the SCO Economic Development Strategy, aiming for sustainable development through multilateral cooperation until 2030.
