India is participating in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) Council of National Coordinators meeting in Islamabad from September 28 to 30. National Coordinator Alok Dimri is leading the Indian delegation. The visit comes amid continued tensions between India and Pakistan and marks the first such Indian delegation to Pakistan since the 2025 military confrontation following Operation Sindoor.
Three-Day SCO Meeting in Islamabad
The meeting brings together national coordinators from the SCO’s 10 member states, along with representatives of the SCO Secretariat. Discussions are focused on cooperation, coordination and preparations for upcoming SCO meetings and events.
Pakistan Holds SCO Chairmanship
Pakistan is holding the SCO Council of Heads of State chairmanship for 2026 to 27. Its stated theme is “Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity.”
Pakistan says its priorities include improving regional connectivity, promoting innovation, expanding economic cooperation and strengthening people-to-people contacts.
Focus on Upcoming SCO Summit
The national coordinators are also preparing the programme and calendar for activities under Pakistan’s chairmanship. Their work will contribute to preparations for the next SCO Council of Heads of State summit, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan in Islamabad in August 2027.
India-Pakistan Ties Remain Strained
India’s participation is taking place despite strained bilateral relations with Pakistan. The engagement is within the multilateral SCO framework, rather than a resumption of broader bilateral talks.
India and Pakistan have remained active in SCO mechanisms since becoming full members in 2017. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had also travelled to Islamabad in October 2024 for an SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting.