China's Commitment to a Stronger SCO Community Ahead of Tianjin Summit

As the upcoming Tianjin Summit approaches, Chinese President Xi Jinping's commitment to fostering a closer Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) community is becoming increasingly evident. This commitment is highlighted by recent achievements in cooperation among member states, as well as the strategic vision articulated by Xi, who emphasizes the importance of unity and collaboration among the diverse countries of the SCO.

The SCO, originally founded in 2001, has expanded into a significant trans-regional entity comprising ten full members, including China, India, and Russia, along with two observer states and fourteen dialogue partners. This evolution marks a shift from a regional organization to a global player in international politics. President Xi will chair the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO during the summit scheduled for August 31 and September 1 in Tianjin, showcasing China's pivotal role in this multilateral platform.

Cooperative Achievements and Regional Development

Recent developments underscore the efficacy of SCO cooperation. For instance, in May 2025, the first China-Central Asia freight train of the year set off from Tianjin Port bound for Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This train transported a range of goods, including auto parts and household appliances, significantly enhancing the logistics channels between China and the other SCO countries. Such initiatives not only stimulate economic growth but also foster deeper ties among member nations.

The summit will mark China's fifth hosting of an SCO event, and this particular gathering is projected to be the largest since the organization's founding. Over twenty countries and representatives from ten international organizations are expected to attend, further emphasizing the importance of the event.

The SCO’s growing cooperation extends into critical areas such as energy security, food security, and the stabilization of supply chains amidst global uncertainties. The organization has become a vital platform for the Belt and Road Initiative, leading to collaborative projects that enhance regional connectivity.

Security and Cooperative Framework

Security remains a fundamental concern for the SCO, with member states united against challenges such as terrorism and drug trafficking. Joint military exercises and the establishment of dialogue mechanisms illustrate the SCO's proactive approach to regional security. The organization’s efforts in this regard have been pivotal in ensuring stability across Eurasia, paving the way for further collaboration in economic and social spheres.

Infrastructure development within the SCO region also stands out as a notable achievement. Projects like the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and pipelines for natural gas and oil have drastically improved transportation and resource distribution across member countries. In fact, recent statistics reveal that trade between China and other SCO members reached an impressive 3.65 trillion yuan in 2024, showcasing the robust economic interdependence fostered by the SCO framework.

Vision for the Future

Xi Jinping’s vision for the SCO, articulated in his proposal for a community with a shared future announced at the 2018 Qingdao summit, continues to resonate within the organization. This vision promotes mutual trust and respect among member states, underlining the importance of collaboration in overcoming global challenges. Xi’s assertion that the SCO serves as a “big family” reiterates the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and cooperation, in stark contrast to exclusive alliances formed on ideological grounds.

As the summit approaches, the emphasis on a closer SCO community becomes increasingly pronounced. The organization’s commitment to enhancing regional development, security, and collaboration is evident in Xi’s dialogue with foreign ministers and the leadership’s dedication to a prospering future for all member states. Ultimately, the SCO is positioned as a crucial actor in maintaining stability and promoting shared prosperity across Eurasia.

In summary, as China gears up for the Tianjin Summit, it is clear that the nation's commitment to fostering a closer SCO community will play a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s future direction and its ability to address the myriad challenges facing its member states today.