Indian MFA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said both Armenia and Azerbaijan applied this year to join the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
“Due to time constraints, a decision on this could not be taken by member states in Tianjin. However, the issue of both countries’ membership remains under consideration within the organization,” he stated, responding to reports that India blocked Azerbaijan’s bid.
Earlier, media had reported that India vetoed Azerbaijan’s membership, while Pakistan blocked Armenia’s application. Armenia’s MFA refrained from commenting on Islamabad’s move, noting only that it sees a constructive approach toward its membership prospects.
Previously, Russia’s special envoy for SCO affairs, Bakhtiyer Khakimov, said the general message at the summit regarding Armenia and Azerbaijan’s participation was positive, and that no blocking issue was raised at either the working or political level.
The SCO summit took place in Tianjin, China, from August 31 to September 1, with over 20 national leaders and representatives of 10 international organizations in attendance.
