India and Iran: Prospects and Challenges within the SCO

Sherin KV, Rahana

doi:10.22059/jcountst.2025.399341.1322

India and Iran: Prospects and Challenges within the SCO

Document Type : Original

Author

Rahana Sherin KV

Academy of International Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India.

10.22059/jcountst.2025.399341.1322

Abstract

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) presents both opportunities and challenges for India and Iran as they pursue divergent strategic objectives within the Eurasian geopolitical landscape. While India views the SCO as a platform for economic connectivity and counterbalancing China’s influence, Iran primarily leverages its membership to mitigate Western sanctions and strengthen ties with Russia and China. This study examines their engagement through three lenses: (1) the SCO’s strategic value for each nation, (2) historical bilateral relations shaping current cooperation, and (3) prospects and challenges amid regional dynamics, including the roles of Turkey, Egypt, the U.S., and Israel. Key findings reveal convergences in regional connectivity and counterterrorism but stark divergences in geopolitical alignment. India’s balancing act between SCO and Western alliances (e.g., QUAD) contrasts with Iran’s anti-Western posture, complicating unified positions. External pressures like U.S. sanctions on Iran and India’s defense ties with Israel further strain collaboration. The inclusion of Turkey and Egypt as dialogue partners dilutes Iran’s centrality while introducing competitive economic agendas. Major policy implications include, India must diversify SCO energy partnerships while hedging via QUAD and accelerating INSTC to reduce BRI dependence, Iran should avoid over-reliance on China/Russia and leverage SCO for sanction relief without compromising autonomy, SCO reforms are needed to accommodate divergent interests, particularly India-Pakistan tensions. The study concludes that strategic autonomy for India and economic sovereignty for Iran are critical to harnessing the SCO’s potential amid great-power rivalry.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Economics

حوزة موضوعی: ایران و هند

Scope: Iran & India

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