India inaugurates 'New Delhi Hall' at SCO Secretariat ahead of the summit. In preparation for the upcoming SCO summit under India's Presidency, an intricately crafted 'New Delhi Hall' was inaugurated on 27^th of June at the headquarters of the eight-member group. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar described the hall as a representation of "mini-India" during the inauguration ceremony.

The Secretariat of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), which includes China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, and Pakistan, is situated in the prestigious diplomatic district of Beijing.

Among the six founding members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), namely China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, each country has its dedicated hall that showcases its culture and distinctive characteristics. India has become the first country to introduce its own 'New Delhi Hall,' which was officially inaugurated in preparation for the upcoming virtual SCO summit on July 4. Meanwhile, Pakistan may have to wait for its opportunity to establish its own hall within the SCO Secretariat.

In his video address, Jaishankar said, “I am delighted to inaugurate the New Delhi Hall at the SCO Secretariat today amidst the august presence of the SCO Secretary General and other distinguished colleagues”.

“I am particularly pleased to note that this is being done under the first-ever SCO presidency which will conclude soon with the SCO Summit,” he said.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar described the New Delhi Hall as a representation of "mini-India" within the SCO Secretariat, designed to exhibit the diverse aspects of Indian culture.

“To make you visualise the depth of India’s artistic tradition and cultural identity, the Hall has been designed with exquisite patterns and motifs representing the rich architectural craftsmanship found throughout India,” he said.

“I hope that the New Delhi Hall will be a useful addition to the SCO Secretariat that will augment Indian colours/flavour to the multicultural and multinational character of the SCO

According to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, the New Delhi Hall in the SCO Secretariat will serve as a testament to India's dedication to promoting the principle of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,' which emphasizes the concept of global unity and the belief that "The World is One Family."

He said, “The hall will be useful in conducting the activities and meetings of the Secretariat which are increasing year after year.”

Image source: The Telegraph