SCO Council of Heads of State
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | June 15, 2023 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 203,100 |
| Perforation | comb 14 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Yvert et Tellier IN 3556 Stanley Gibbons IN 3858 Colnect codes IN 2023.06.15-01 |
| Themes | Conferences | Diplomacy | Globes | Seals(Emblems) |
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), established on 15 June 2001 in Shanghai, is a multilateral organization comprising eight Member States: China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
India’s engagement with the SCO began in 2005 as an Observer State, and it became a full-fledged member on 9 June 2017 in Astana. India places significant importance on the SCO in promoting multilateral cooperation in political, security, economic, and people-to-people interactions in the region. India views the SCO as a vital regional organization for enhancing cooperation in peace, security, trade, economy, and culture, and is committed to broadening cooperation by playing a proactive and constructive role.
Despite becoming a member in 2017, India’s historical ties with SCO countries date back millennia, making it a natural partner for SCO Member States. India assumed the Chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of State on 17 September 222, succeeding Uzbekistan. This marked a historic moment as India chaired the highest decision-making body of the organization for the first time.
Under India’s Chairmanship, the overarching theme was ‘Towards a SECURE SCO,’ aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the organization, focusing on security, economic development, connectivity, unity, respect for sovereignty and integrity, and environmental protection. Various events and meetings were organized during India’s Chairmanship, including meetings of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, Culture, Tourism, Environment, and Commerce, aimed at enhancing cooperation among Member States.
Varanasi (Kashi) was celebrated as the first-ever Cultural and Tourist capital of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation 2022-23 during India’s chairmanship. Numerous workshops, conferences, seminars, and cultural activities were conducted throughout the year, garnering enthusiastic participation from all Member States.
In honor of India’s inaugural Chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of State, the Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp, recognizing this significant milestone in India’s engagement with the SCO.