ABSTRACT
This chapter examines whether Indian membership in the China-led Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is the beginning of a gradual adaption to a China-led order, a drive to foster cooperation with China, or an attempt to counter Chinese influence in this part of the Indian neighbourhood. First, it explores the reasons for India becoming a member of the SCO, followed by a critical examination of the convergence and divergence between Indian and Chinese interests on four issues of importance within the SCO: combating international terrorism, India–Pakistan relations, China’s Belt and Road Initiative, and India’s relations with the China–Russia–US great power triangle. The final section concludes by arguing that the SCO is a venue for India to collaborate with China on issues of common interest without in any way signalling its adaptation to a China-led order in the region.
