China hosts SCO Summit 2025 as global crises escalate

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, along with an expanded “SCO Plus” meeting in Tianjin from Aug. 31 to Sept. 1, is set to take place amidst a global crisis. The ongoing Gaza war, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the economic challenges faced by many countries have created a complex and uncertain environment. However, the SCO summit presents a ray of hope and a platform for cooperation and solidarity among its member states.

The SCO, founded in 2001, is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising eight member states – China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, and Pakistan. It aims to promote mutual trust, cooperation, and stability in the region. The SCO Plus meeting, which includes four observer states – Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, and Mongolia, and six dialogue partners – Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Turkey, further expands the organization’s reach and influence.

The theme of this year’s summit is “Strengthening Solidarity and Mutual Trust for Common Development and Prosperity.” This theme is particularly relevant in the current global scenario, where the world is facing multiple challenges. The SCO has always been a proponent of multilateralism and has played a crucial role in promoting regional stability and economic development. The summit provides an opportunity for member states to reaffirm their commitment to the SCO’s principles and work towards a more prosperous and secure future.

The Gaza war, which has claimed the lives of hundreds of innocent civilians, has once again highlighted the need for peace and stability in the region. The SCO has always advocated for a peaceful resolution of conflicts and has condemned any use of force. The organization has also called for an immediate ceasefire and urged all parties to engage in dialogue to find a lasting solution. The SCO’s stance on the Gaza war is a testament to its commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region.

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to the world, affecting every aspect of our lives. The SCO has been at the forefront of the fight against the pandemic, with member states providing medical assistance and sharing their experiences and best practices. The organization has also called for international cooperation and solidarity in the fight against the virus. The SCO Plus meeting will provide a platform for member states to discuss and coordinate their efforts in tackling the pandemic and its aftermath.

The economic challenges posed by the pandemic have also been a major concern for the SCO member states. The organization has been working towards promoting economic cooperation and integration among its members. The SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) has been actively involved in coordinating efforts to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic. The SCO Plus meeting will provide an opportunity for member states to discuss ways to further enhance economic cooperation and explore new avenues for trade and investment.

The SCO has also been actively involved in promoting cultural and people-to-people exchanges among its member states. The organization has organized various cultural events and youth forums to foster mutual understanding and friendship among the people of the region. The SCO Plus meeting will further strengthen these ties and promote cultural exchanges between the observer states and dialogue partners.

In conclusion, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit and the SCO Plus meeting in Tianjin are taking place at a critical juncture in history. The world is facing numerous challenges, and the SCO has a crucial role to play in promoting peace, stability, and economic development in the region. The summit provides an opportunity for member states to reaffirm their commitment to the organization’s principles and work towards a better future for all. Let us hope that the summit will be a success and pave the way for a more prosperous and secure world.