India to contribute constructively to the implementation of SCO's mandate

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on Thursday highlighted India’s commitment to contribute constructively to the implementation of the mandate of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation at the 20th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government. He said, as the world moves towards practical implementation of trade and economic agenda of SCO, climate change impact of joint activities must be paid heed to. Dr Jaishankar added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent call for One Sun: One World: One Grid and Green-Grid Initiatives are expected to lead to the development of a cohesive and robust global grid. He stated that India is ready to share its experience in climate change mitigation and adaptation in the SCO format.
The External Affairs Minister said, COVID pandemic has exposed the weakness of global institutions and it is time now to bring in much needed reforms to the global institutions, including the World Health Organisation. He stressed on the need for Reformed and Reinvigourated Multilateralism that reflects today's realities, which gives voice to all stakeholders, addresses contemporary challenges and puts human beings at the centre of thought and policies. Dr Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to cooperate, plan, invest and build physical and digital connectivity in the SCO region. He said, any serious connectivity initiative must be consultative, transparent and participatory and conform to the most basic principle of international law, which is respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.