Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday emphasised unity and practical action among Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) members as the bloc held its largest-ever summit in Tianjin, China. He outlined economic, security, and governance initiatives, stressing the need to build a fairer global system and strengthen regional connectivity.
Expansion and Global Influence of SCO
Since its founding in 2001, the SCO has grown into a family of 26 nations, including members, observers, and dialogue partners, spanning Asia, Europe, and Africa. Its combined economic output nears $30 trillion.
“Its international influence and appeal are increasing day by day,” Xi said, praising the organisation’s “groundbreaking and historic achievements” in cooperation and development.
Call for Unity and Shared Progress
Xi urged leaders to carry forward the “Shanghai Spirit,” stressing respect for differences and a focus on shared goals.
“SCO member states are all friends and partners,” he said. “We should seek common ground, pursue mutual benefit and win-win results, and champion openness and inclusiveness.”
He also highlighted cooperation in energy, infrastructure, digital economy, green industry, artificial intelligence, and science and technology as key areas of future growth.
Security and Governance Initiatives
The Chinese president proposed stronger mechanisms to counter security challenges, including making operational the SCO Universal Centre for Countering Security Threats and establishing an SCO development bank.
“We should advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation,” Xi said, calling for a fairer global governance system.
At the SCO Plus meeting, Xi also introduced the Global Governance Initiative (GGI) built on five principles: sovereign equality, adherence to international law, multilateralism, a people-centred approach, and real action.
China’s Commitments and Financial Support
Xi announced concrete support for SCO nations, including a grant of 2 billion yuan this year and 10 billion yuan in loans to member banks over three years.
China will also launch 100 livelihood projects, establish 10 Luban Workshops, and provide 10,000 training opportunities in member states. “China always aligns its development with that of the SCO and with the aspiration of the people of member states for a better life,” he stated.
Growing Economic Integration
China’s trade with SCO members has already surpassed $500 billion annually, with investments exceeding $84 billion. Xi said the organisation must leverage “the strengths of their mega-sized markets” to strengthen trade, investment, and supply chain reliability.
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