#China #Zhengzhou #Shanghai Cooperation Organization #SCO Media

SCO Media and Think Tank Summit: Emphasizing Collaboration

The recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit, held from July 25 to July 28, 2025, in Zhengzhou, China, proved to be a significant event for enhancing collaboration among media organizations and think tanks across SCO member states. The central theme of this summit, "Upholding the Shanghai Spirit to Build a More Beautiful Home," resonates deeply with the current aspirations of various nations to work closely on multiple fronts, from cultural exchanges to economic cooperation.

The gathering brought together over 400 representatives from nearly 200 media outlets, think tanks, and governmental bodies. This diverse mix included delegates from SCO member nations, observer states, and dialogue partners, highlighting the importance of multidimensional collaborations in today’s interconnected world. The emphasis was on sharing knowledge and ideas to strengthen ties among participating countries and further bolster regional unity.

During the plenary session, Mo Gaoyi, Deputy Head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China, advocated for all stakeholders to promote the Shanghai Spirit vigorously. This concept serves as a guiding principle for cooperation among SCO nations, focusing on mutual respect, trust, and shared aspirations for peace and development. Mo pointed out that the upcoming SCO Summit in Tianjin will benefit immensely from the collaborative groundwork laid at Zhengzhou.

Fu Hua, the President of Xinhua News Agency, also spoke passionately about the potential impact of media and think tanks when unified under the SCO’s framework. He expressed a commitment to utilizing these platforms to narrate the collective progress of SCO countries in a contemporary context. The narrative will aim at presenting a panoramic and nuanced view of how these nations are standing together to face challenges while pursuing common goals in an era of rapid globalization.

A particularly noteworthy moment during the summit came when Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov’s congratulatory message was read aloud. He remarked on the indispensable role media and think tanks play in fostering trust and showcasing the rich spirit and culture of the SCO. His confidence in the summit as a catalyst for generating innovative ideas aimed at promoting peace and sustainable development was emblematic of the event’s overall spirit dedication.

The joint efforts of Xinhua, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), and the Henan provincial government in hosting this summit reflect a shared vision for the future. During the discussions, several key documents were released, including the SCO Media and Think Tank Summit Zhengzhou Consensus and a think tank report on the stewardship of human civilization's treasures through China's cultural heritage preservation practices. These documents are expected to provide a framework for future engagements and policies among SCO participants.

In summary, this summit was not merely a gathering; it was a platform that encapsulated the ideals of cooperation and mutual development among nations. The emphasis on the Shanghai Spirit is indicative of a broader commitment to working together in an era characterized by both challenges and opportunities. With the next SCO Summit on the horizon, the outcomes from Zhengzhou could very well pave the way for deeper alliances and collaborative ventures, underscoring the collective aspiration for a prosperous and harmonious future within the SCO community.