During the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Samarkand, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened to discuss regional stability and global geopolitics. The summit, held under the shadow of the Russia-Ukraine war, highlighted the importance of multilateral cooperation. Putin, during bilateral meetings with Xi and Modi, reiterated his stance that NATO expansion remains the primary catalyst for the conflict. This alignment underscores the strategic interests of these three nations in countering Western influence.
India, while maintaining a neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict, has been strengthening its economic and defense ties with Russia. Modi’s participation in the summit signals a shift in India’s foreign policy, balancing its relationships with both the West and Russia. China, on the other hand, has been increasingly vocal about its opposition to NATO expansion, aligning with Russia’s narrative. The summit serves as a platform for these countries to coordinate their positions on global issues, particularly regarding security and economic cooperation.
Analysts suggest that the SCO summit is part of a broader effort to counter Western dominance in global affairs. The leaders’ focus on NATO expansion reflects a shared concern over the security of their respective regions. However, the absence of the United States and European allies at the summit highlights the growing polarization in international relations. As tensions continue to escalate in Europe, the strategic collaboration between Russia, China, and India is likely to become a significant factor in shaping the future of global geopolitics.