Editor's note: The writer is Director of Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies, Pakistan. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of China Economic Net.
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is celebrating its 20 years this year. Since its establishment, this important multilateral forum has made significant contributions to the common security and development pursuit of the region. At the time of inception, SCO was meant to address “the three evils”, i.e., extremism, separatism, and terrorism in the region. Since then, it has been prioritising cooperation, trade, economic collaborations, and people to people ties. As a result, SCO has come of age with expanded membership including Pakistan and India. It is significant to note that SCO is operating especially when Afghanistan is in shambles with the chaos created by the US and its allies. Apart from the mounting security threats and rise of terrorism in the region in a post-US-withdrawal scenario, growing poverty, and economic disparities also threaten regional security and stability. SCO has the unique position to contribute to regional peace and stability through regional structures, policies, and programs. Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) primarily focuses on coordination and communication to eradicate the “three evils”. The recent announcement of