India’s Strategic Engagement with Central Asian Nations via the SCO: Reflections from the Samarkand Summit
The recently held Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, underscored India’s expanding strategic and economic interests in Central Asia. India’s involvement with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) through the SCO represents a comprehensive strategy designed to fulfill several primary goals.

Firstly, India aims to boost its economic presence in the region. The CARs are abundant in natural resources, such as oil, gas, and minerals, which are essential for India’s energy needs and industrial advancement. By utilizing the SCO platform, India can promote trade and investment collaborations, especially in sectors like energy, infrastructure, and technology.

Secondly, India intends to enhance its geopolitical sway in Central Asia. This region holds a critical position between China, Russia, and the Middle East, making it an essential route for trade and security. By participating in the SCO, India can interact with regional powers while contributing positively to maintaining stability and security, combating terrorism, and fostering economic collaboration.

Thirdly, India seeks to diversify its strategic alliances and lessen its reliance on any single partner. The SCO, which includes both China and Russia, offers a distinct multilateral setting where India can maneuver through intricate geopolitical landscapes and establish a well-rounded foreign policy. This is particularly crucial as India strives to balance its interactions with major global powers and assert its strategic independence.

Lastly, India’s engagement with the CARs through the SCO forms part of its broader Act Far East initiative, which aims to extend its influence beyond South Asia. By nurturing closer relationships with these nations, India can help create a more interconnected and inclusive regional framework, aligning with its vision of a multipolar world.

In summary, the Samarkand summit highlighted India’s dedication to intensifying its relationship with the CARs through the SCO. This strategic initiative is focused on achieving economic, geopolitical, and security goals while also enhancing regional stability and cooperation.