Afghanistan's SCO Re-engagement Rattles Pakistan, Pleases China, Worries US

• Afghanistan, an SCO observer state, is ready to resume full cooperation and active participation in the organization's meetings, as stated by Ambassador Gul Hassan.
• Russia and China are pushing for Afghanistan's active involvement, believing it's practical and necessary for regional stability.
• Afghanistan's participation alongside Pakistan in SCO meetings could diminish Islamabad's unilateral influence in Afghan affairs and elevate Kabul's diplomatic standing.
• Increased Afghan activity in SCO could strengthen India's engagement with Afghanistan on a multilateral platform, leveraging existing historical and strategic ties.
• The move could pressure Pakistan to align its Afghan policy with the collective SCO stance, especially as China seeks direct cooperation with Afghanistan for economic corridors.

Why It Matters: Afghanistan's re-engagement with SCO shifts regional dynamics, challenging Pakistan's influence and boosting India-China interests.