India inaugurates New Delhi Hall at SCO Secretariat in Beijing; EAM Jaishankar says it depicts ‘mini-India’

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated an exquisitely designed ‘New Delhi Hall’ at the SCO Secretariat in Beijing, which he said depicts a “mini-India” and will foster a better understanding of the country’s culture.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on June 27 inaugurated an exquisitely designed 'New Delhi Hall' at the SCO Secretariat in Beijing, which he said depicts a “mini-India” and will foster a better understanding of the country's culture.

The virtual inauguration of the hall by Mr. Jaishankar came ahead of next month’s Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit to be held for the first time under India’s Presidency.

The Secretariat of the eight-member SCO grouping comprising China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan is located in the high-end diplomatic area in Beijing.

While the six founding members China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan have their halls highlighting their cultures and unique features, India is the first to add its own 'New Delhi Hall' which is officially opened ahead of the July 4 SCO summit to be held in virtual format.

Pakistan may have to await its turn to set up its hall.

In his video address, Mr. 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.