China's Commitment to Strengthening the SCO Community with Shared Goals

Strengthening Bonds within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

In a significant step toward fostering closer ties among its member states, China is gearing up to host the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin at the end of August. Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to lead discussions that will focus on enhancing collaboration in various sectors, a testament to the SCO's pivotal role in promoting peace and cooperation in the region.

A Review of Cooperation Achievements

The recent article from CGTN highlighted notable progress in cooperation among SCO nations, reflecting on the achievements since the organization's inception in 2001. The SCO started as a regional grouping, but it has transformed into a comprehensive organization with 10 full members, 2 observer nations, and numerous dialogue partners. This expansion illustrates the successful diplomatic efforts of China and other member countries in building a robust regional alliance.

One of the prominent developments cited was the launch of the first China-Central Asia freight train of 2025. Departing from Tianjin Port, this freight service delivered 50 containers of essential goods, including auto parts and household appliances, directly to Tashkent, Uzbekistan's capital. Such initiatives have streamlined logistics and boosted economic cooperation, forging deeper economic ties between member states.

Focus Areas of Cooperation

As the SCO navigates the complexities of today’s global landscape, challenges such as energy security and climate change have taken center stage. By focusing on these key issues, member countries are actively working towards creating a stable environment that ensures food and energy security, while also addressing the urgent need to combat climate change. Security collaboration remains a fundamental aspect of the SCO's mission, with joint operations against terrorism and drug trafficking being paramount to achieving regional stability.

Infrastructure Connectivity

The SCO has made significant strides in strengthening connectivity across Asia. Major projects such as the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and the China-Central Asia natural gas pipeline have been launched to enhance infrastructure development and socio-economic integration. Furthermore, trade among SCO countries skyrocketed in 2024, with figures soaring to approximately 3.65 trillion yuan (around $511 billion), demonstrating a substantial increase since the organization’s founding.