Xi Jinping Urges SCO Unity Against External Interference at Summit
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Leaders’ Summit in Kazakhstan Highlights China’s Call for Unity
At the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) held in Kazakhstan, Chinese leader Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of resisting external interference and maintaining regional peace and development. The SCO, established in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, originally focused on combating terrorism and enhancing border security in Central Asia.
Xi Jinping, in his address quoted by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, urged member states to consolidate unity amidst internal differences and challenges. The summit, attended by leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin, marked a significant geopolitical event as Belarus, a key Russian ally, joined the SCO, following Iran’s full membership last year and India and Pakistan’s inclusion in 2017.
Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, ahead of the summit, highlighted the deepening alignment between China and Russia, describing their relationship as a stabilizing force on the international stage. They underscored their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation amid what they termed “turbulence and changes” in the global landscape.
The SCO’s expansion and the growing partnership between China and Russia have drawn attention for their perceived counterbalance to Western influence, notably in the context of US-led sanctions against Russia and geopolitical tensions over Ukraine.
The summit also addressed concerns over Cold War mentalities and emphasized the need to safeguard developmental rights amidst technological restrictions imposed by Western countries. Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin’s discussions reflected ongoing efforts to bolster strategic coordination and oppose external interference, affirming their commitment to regional stability.
The SCO continues to evolve under Chinese and Russian leadership, positioning itself as a significant player in shaping a multipolar world order.