The 51st Sapru House Lecture was delivered by H.E. Mr. Nurlan Yermekbayev, Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), on 6 February 2025.
Ms. Nutan Kapoor Mahawar, Additional Secretary, ICWA, delivered the welcome remarks, highlighting India’s role and engagement with the SCO and the broader Eurasian region.
Reflecting on India’s priorities within the SCO, Ms. Mahawar reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘SECURE’ SCO—focusing on Security, Economic Cooperation, Unity, Respect for Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity, and Environmental Protection. She highlighted India’s commitment to regional cooperation, particularly in countering terrorism and extremism.
Ms. Mahawar further noted the critical importance of strengthened connectivity for regional peace and stability. She acknowledged the challenges posed by geopolitics but emphasized the significance of initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and India’s contributions to climate-friendly global efforts, such as the International Solar Alliance and Mission LiFE.
H.E. Mr. Nurlan Yermekbayev in his lecture underscored the fundamental role of the SCO in fostering cooperation and stability amidst global transformations. Highlighting the evolving international order, Yermekbayev called attention to the profound shifts in politics, economics, and technology shaping the current world landscape.
“Today, the world is going through an era of significant and profound changes affecting all aspects of international relations,” Yermekbayev noted. Against this dynamic backdrop, the SCO emerges as a crucial platform for strengthening regional synergies and promoting development in Eurasia.
The Essence of the Shanghai Spirit
Central to the SCO’s success is the enduring “Shanghai Spirit,” a concept rooted in values such as mutual equality, consultations, and respect. “The choice made by the SCO Member States at the beginning of the 21st century continues to serve as evidence of the strength and steadfastness of the Shanghai Spirit,” emphasised Yermekbayev.
This guiding philosophy, he explained, enables the SCO to address complex issues and adapt swiftly to global changes, making it an ideal venue for resolving seemingly intractable problems.
Adapting to Global Challenges
As the world faces mounting security threats, economic uncertainties, and technological disruptions, the SCO’s role as a stabilising force becomes even more critical. Yermekbayev highlighted the organization’s adaptability: “The SCO plays an important role in supporting stability and strengthening mutual trust between States,” he said, adding that competition among multilateral formats can be seen as positive, driving innovation and progress.
He acknowledged the tectonic shifts in the global economy, marked by advancements in information technology, artificial intelligence, and e-commerce. Despite challenges such as disrupted supply chains and reduced investment flows, Yermekbayev reaffirmed the SCO’s commitment to facilitating the free movement of goods, capital, and services.
Economic Cooperation and Innovation
Economic collaboration remains a cornerstone of the SCO’s agenda. The Secretary General highlighted the steady growth of mutual trade turnover among member states, which reached $650 billion in 2023—a 29% increase from the previous year. This growth, he noted, underscores the potential for further strengthening economic ties.
Yermekbayev further outlined ongoing initiatives, including digital transformation, decarbonization, and the expansion of mutual settlements in national currencies. “The SCO Economic Development Strategy for the period up to 2030 reflects coordinated approaches to expanding economic cooperation,” he stated.
The creation of mechanisms for financial support, such as a Development Bank and Investment Fund, is also under consideration, signalling a forward-looking approach to regional development.
Expanding Partnerships and Global Engagement
The SCO’s inclusive and cooperative approach sets it apart from other regional organizations. “We firmly adhere to the principle of openness, offering opportunities to develop and deepen cooperation with interested countries,” Yermekbayev underlined.
The organization’s growing “family” now includes 2 Observer States and 14 Dialogue Partners, with 8 countries joining since 2022. The Secretary General also highlighted the SCO’s strong partnership with the United Nations and its engagement with regional organizations such as ASEAN, BRICS, and the Arab League.
A Vision for Peace and Stability
Concluding his address, Yermekbayev reaffirmed the SCO’s unwavering commitment to peace and stability. “The importance of the voice of the SCO in the international arena continues to grow,” he noted, citing the organization’s participation in major summits as evidence of its expanding influence.
In a rapidly evolving world, the SCO stands as a beacon of cooperation, innovation, and mutual respect. Through its efforts to address security, economic development, and cultural interaction, the organization is not just strengthening regional synergies but also contributing meaningfully to the global quest for peace and stability.
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