SCO : New Opportunity in Regional Cooperation for Nepal

# Prem Sagar Poudel

The relationship between Nepal and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has been historically deep and important. The King of Nepal was invited as the chief guest at the first summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the event formed the initial foundation of the relationship between Nepal and the organization. Against the background of this historic participation, Nepal has been gradually expanding and deepening its relationship with the SCO.

For Nepal, the relationship with the SCO is not just a diplomatic formality, but also a strategic necessity. Nepal has been able to enhance its role as a transit economy since joining the organization. Despite being landlocked, Nepal has got a historic opportunity to connect and enhance international trade and maritime connectivity. Nepal needs to fully utilize this opportunity without limiting it.

Nepal has already received many benefits from the SCO and has ample potential to gain more in the future. In the economic sector, cooperation can be increased with SCO member states, especially large economies such as China and Russia, to promote trade, investment, and tourism. The SCO is an important platform for joint action and information exchange on transnational challenges in the security sector such as terrorism, illicit drug trafficking, and cybercrime. Through this, Nepal can strengthen its national security capabilities.

The SCO has further strengthened the relationship between Nepal and China. China, as a key member and founding member of the organization, has been encouraging Nepal to actively participate in the activities of the SCO. Cooperation between the two countries spans diverse sectors such as infrastructure development, energy, tourism, and education. Projects in Nepal under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have accelerated the country’s transit capacity and economic development. This type of cooperation can be further streamlined and expanded through the SCO.

Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will be attending the current SCO summit. This participation is an important diplomatic opportunity for Nepal. Prime Minister Oli must highlight Nepal’s national interests, development needs, and the country’s contribution to regional cooperation at this forum. In particular, discussions could be held for cooperation and technology transfer from SCO member states in areas such as transit economy, energy security, information technology, agriculture, and human resource development.

Nepal must keep its preparations and strategy clear to take full advantage of this opportunity. It is necessary to take steps such as playing an active role within the organization, strengthening bilateral relations with member states, and coordinating economic policies. Additionally, internally, Nepal should strive to develop its policies, laws, and infrastructure in line with SCO standards so that it can fully benefit from the organization’s support.

Thus, the relationship between Nepal and the SCO needs to develop into a dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership, not just a formality. Nepal can achieve a positive and new direction by combining its geographical location, young manpower, and development potential with the goals of the organization. By participating in future SCO programs, Nepal can contribute to regional peace, stability, and prosperity, as well as accelerate its national development.

(The author is a senior journalist, political analyst, president of the Nepal-China Mutual Cooperation Society, and an expert on international affairs.)