As the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin enters its final day, geopolitics takes the spotlight. From India’s concerns over terrorism to US tariff moves and high-profile diplomatic meetings, the stage is set for major outcomes. Here are the key highlights.

1. Will the Joint Declaration Mention pahalgam Attacks?

India is pushing for a strong reference to the Pahalgam terror attacks in the final SCO joint declaration. The omission of this incident from the Defence Ministers’ declaration earlier drew sharp criticism from New Delhi. A clear statement condemning cross-border terrorism will be a diplomatic win for India.

2. PM Modi’s Push Against Double Standards on Terrorism

In a direct message to member states, PM Modi urged the SCO to adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism. With Pakistan’s prime minister Shehbaz Sharif in attendance, Modi’s remarks signalled India’s stance against selective condemnation of terror incidents.

3. Xi jinping Extends Support to India

In a surprising turn, Chinese President Xi Jinping supported Modi’s concerns on cross-border terrorism. This gesture, along with a widely discussed handshake between Modi and Xi, hints at a potential softening of tensions between the two nations—at least in the SCO context.

4. US Tariffs Loom Large Over the Summit

The geopolitical tension escalated after US President donald trump imposed an additional 50% tariff on indian goods as a penalty for Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil. Member states, including china and Russia, criticised what Xi called “bullying behaviour”, setting the tone for strong anti-tariff language in the declaration.

5. Modi-Putin Bilateral Meeting – The Big Moment

The most awaited event of Day 2 is PM Modi’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Key discussion points are expected to include:

• India-Russia energy partnership amid sanctions.
• The impact of Trump’s tariffs.
• Ongoing war in ukraine and India’s diplomatic balancing act.

The outcome will shape not only trade relations but also security cooperation ahead of Putin’s scheduled visit to india later this year.

6. Optics Matter – India-Pakistan Tensions Play Out

The presence of Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif adds a layer of complexity. Despite a recent escalation after India’s strikes on terror hubs in Pakistan, the SCO summit projected a formal yet tense diplomatic atmosphere, especially during group photo sessions with Turkey’s Erdogan—another vocal supporter of Pakistan.

7. Trade war & Global Economic Fallout

With multiple SCO members affected by Trump’s trade policies, a strong collective response is expected. Whether the joint declaration directly criticises the US or uses softer language will reveal how united the bloc is on economic issues.

8. Will Cross-Border terrorism Be Named?

India’s key goal remains the inclusion of explicit language on terrorism, with hopes that Xi’s support will ensure a firm statement. A failure to do so could weaken India’s diplomatic push, while success would mark a significant shift in SCO’s stance.

What’s at Stake?

The final day of the SCO Summit could redefine:

• India-China relations in the context of terrorism.
• India-Russia partnership amid global trade wars.
• SCO’s credibility as a platform for cooperative security and economic strategies.