#China #Xi Jinping #Tianjin #Community Building #Shanghai Cooperation

China's Commitment to Strengthen the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Community

As the world looks towards a future shaped by cooperation and unity, China stands firm in its commitment to bolster the influence of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). President Xi Jinping is set to participate in the upcoming SCO summit in Tianjin, which promises to be a pivotal gathering for furthering collective ambitions among member nations.

The SCO, formed in 2001 in Shanghai, initially brought together six countries including China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Over the years, it has expanded its reach, now comprising ten full members, two observer nations, and 14 dialogue partners. This transformation reflects the organization's evolution from a regional alliance to a noteworthy transregional entity.

Enhancing Economic Cooperation

In recent years, various initiatives have exemplified the economic synergy present among SCO member states. Notably, the inaugural China-Central Asia freight train was launched in May 2025, transporting 50 containers filled with automotive parts, machinery, construction materials, and household appliances from Tianjin to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. This direct connection has significantly improved logistical efficiency and fostered deeper trade ties, invigorating regional cooperation.

In 2024 alone, trade between China and various SCO members reached a staggering 3.65 trillion yuan (approximately 511 billion USD), underscoring the ongoing economic momentum within the organization. This promising figure marks a 36.3-fold increase compared to the organization's inception, which speaks volumes about the commitment to elevating mutual economic interests across borders.

A Vision for Collective Security

At the heart of the SCO’s objectives lies a commitment to collective security. The organization actively addresses crucial threats, including terrorism, extremism, and drug trafficking. Through collaborative military exercises and robust dialogue mechanisms, the SCO strengthens its capacity to manage security risks collaboratively. This shared focus on safety has positioned the SCO as a critical player in fostering stability not just regionally but across broader Eurasian landscapes.

Infrastructure Development as a Catalyst for Growth

Infrastructure development has emerged as a primary focus of SCO members. Collaborative projects such as the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and energy pipelines between China and its neighboring states are indicative of the strides made in connectivity. As these efforts progress, the SCO is on the cusp of establishing a comprehensive network of transportation and energy infrastructures that facilitate trade and economic interdependence.

A Stronger Future Together

During the forthcoming summit, Xi Jinping will highlight the significance of a cohesive SCO community, referring to member states as one “big family.” His remarks at previous summits have centered around developing a community that embodies mutual trust, benefit, equality, respect for cultural diversity, and common development. This vision became particularly salient during the Qingdao summit in 2018.

Xi envisions an SCO that remains open and inclusive, contrasting sharply with other exclusive international clubs that can often lean towards ideological confrontations. By prioritizing cooperative engagement and peaceful coexistence, the SCO aims to be a model of multilateral dialogue, enhancing global stability and prosperity.

In a recent meeting in July with foreign ministers and SCO representatives, Xi reiterated China’s dedication to ensuring that the SCO evolves into a more substantial entity that safeguards regional stability while promoting flourishing economies among its members.

Conclusion

As the summit approaches, anticipation builds around Xi Jinping’s agenda and the possibilities that lie ahead for the SCO. The organization's commitment to fostering a closer community with a shared future emphasizes the mutual benefits that can be attained through collaboration. By focusing on security, economic growth, and infrastructural development, the SCO charts a promising course for its member nations, ensuring that they thrive in an increasingly complex global landscape. The Tianjin summit will undoubtedly play a crucial role in setting the tone for future engagements, reinforcing the notion that together, member states can build a secure and prosperous future.