India-China Relations Ease as Indian Delegation Visits China For the first time in over five years, a delegation of Indian businesses visited China, marking a significant step in the gradual thawing of strained ties between the two nations. The visit, which took place between March 29 and April 4, saw eight Indian companies engage with Chinese firms in Shanghai, Zhejiang, and Wuxi, according to Ranjeet Mehta, secretary general and CEO of the Indian trade body PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The delegation focused on exploring collaborations in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, battery solutions, and renewable energy technologies, areas critical to India’s energy security and economic growth. The timing of the visit coincided with heightened global energy volatility, driven by the ongoing Iran war and its impact on supply chains. India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and second-largest consumer of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), has long relied on oil and gas supplies transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Recent disruptions in this critical route have exposed India’s vulnerability to energy price shocks and supply chain instability, prompting a renewed interest in diversifying its energy partnerships. Mehta emphasized that energy security is now a top priority for India, especially amid the challenges posed by the Middle East conflict. The Indian delegation’s focus on renewable energy and EV technologies reflects broader strategic goals. India aims to have electric vehicles account for 30% of total car sales by 2030, but adoption has been hindered by inadequate charging infrastructure and persistent range anxiety among consumers.#india #china #shanghai_cooperation_organization #phd_chamber_of_commerce_and_industry #ranjeet_mehta
SCO Defends Iran and Urges UN to Halt Middle East War Members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) have issued a statement addressing the situation in Iran, condemning the use of force in the Middle East and military strikes against Iran as unacceptable. The bloc called for a strictly peaceful resolution to the ongoing disputes. The statement emphasized the need to ensure the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of Iran, urging all parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could worsen the situation. The SCO also urged the United Nations to take immediate measures to address threats to international peace and security. The organization expressed condolences to the families of those killed in recent attacks and reaffirmed its solidarity with the government and people of Iran. On March 1, 2026, following Iran’s declaration of national mourning over the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and in remembrance of victims of the recent tragic events in the country, the SCO lowered its flag to half-staff at its secretariat in Beijing. This gesture symbolized the bloc’s support for Iran during a time of national sorrow and underscored its commitment to maintaining stability in the region. The SCO’s statement highlights its stance against escalating violence and its call for diplomatic solutions to conflicts involving Iran. The bloc’s actions reflect broader concerns about the impact of military interventions on regional security and the importance of preserving diplomatic channels in resolving disputes.#iran #united_nations #ali_khamenei #beijing #shanghai_cooperation_organization
SCO member states express grave concern over developments in Middle East, attack against Iran The member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) have expressed deep concern over recent developments in the Middle East and the armed attack against Iran, according to an official statement released by the organization. The statement, issued on Monday, condemned the use of force and emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts through dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to international law. The SCO member states reiterated their commitment to upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter, calling for a peaceful resolution to the escalating tensions. They stressed that all parties involved must exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further destabilize the region. The statement also highlighted the need to protect Iran's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, urging immediate cessation of any activities that might worsen the situation. The SCO called on the United Nations and its Security Council to take urgent measures to address actions that threaten international peace and security. The organization extended its condolences to the families of those affected by the attack and reaffirmed its solidarity with the Iranian government and people. The statement underscored the importance of maintaining stability in the region and preventing further escalation of hostilities. The SCO's position reflects a broader concern among its member states about the growing instability in the Middle East. The organization has consistently advocated for diplomatic solutions and multilateral cooperation to address regional conflicts.#iran #middle_east #united_nations #shanghai_cooperation_organization #security_council
