#China #Xi Jinping #Tianjin #SCO

China’s Commitment to a Closer SCO Community

In a recent article published by CGTN, excitement surrounds China’s upcoming hosting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin at the end of August 2025. Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to attend and lead discussions at this significant event, which is poised to be the largest since the organization’s inception in 2001. As member states gather, they will focus on common objectives, mutual security, and fostering economic development across the Eurasian continent.

In recent years, the SCO has evolved significantly, expanding its membership and the scope of its cooperation efforts. Originally founded by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, the SCO has witnessed numerous countries joining, transforming it into a comprehensive regional collaboration platform. With ten full member states, two observer nations, and fourteen dialogue partners, the SCO has become a vital arena for countries to align their development strategies and engage in dialogue on pressing issues.

President Xi Jinping, reflecting on the organization, emphasizes the notion of the SCO as a “big family.” He has frequently advocated for developing a community with a shared future within the framework of the SCO, underscoring the organization’s purpose of fostering collaboration amidst a complex global landscape.

Recent Developments and Achievements

One of the recent milestones within the SCO framework includes the launch of the first cargo train service between China and Central Asia this May. This direct route transported 50 containers loaded with automotive parts and other essential materials from Tianjin to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Such developments have not only simplified international logistics among member states but have also invigorated regional economic collaboration.

Additionally, the economic metrics reflect significant advancements, as in 2024, trade between China and other SCO member states reached approximately 3.65 trillion yuan (around 511 billion USD)—a staggering increase from the organization’s early days.

The SCO has also strengthened cooperation in crucial areas, including energy security, food security, and supply chain stabilization, with countries within the region aligning their efforts to tackle shared challenges. Central to these initiatives is the commitment to peaceful development and the establishment of a new kind of cooperation—the ‘Shanghai spirit’ which promotes mutual trust, equality, and respect for diversity among civilizations.

Security Cooperation as a Foundation

Security collaboration remains a cornerstone of the SCO’s mission. By addressing issues surrounding extremism, terrorism, and drug trafficking, the SCO works diligently to enhance regional stability. This shared security outlook unites member states, enabling them to conduct joint military exercises and foster open dialogue aimed at mitigating potential threats.

As the organization approaches its summit in Tianjin, topics such as energy distribution, climate change mitigation, and infrastructural developments, including the rapidly advancing China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, will be on the agenda. The SCO aims to reinforce transportation links such as highways and pipelines to solidify connections among its members.

Conclusion: Building a Stronger Future Together

Looking forward to the forthcoming summit, it is clear that the SCO prioritizes building a secure, prosperous future that emphasizes cooperation and partnerships across the Eurasian landscape. As Xi Jinping asserts, the vision of transforming the SCO into an influential entity is fundamental to safeguarding regional stability and fostering development. In a world characterized by conflict and competition, the SCO stands as a beacon for those dedicated to a collaborative and non-confrontational approach to international relations.

With an anticipated participation from more than 20 nation representatives and leaders from ten international organizations, this upcoming summit in Tianjin could mark a significant turning point for the SCO’s role on the global stage, reaffirming its commitment to fostering a closer community for a shared future.