Why it matters:
The participation of China, alongside India, Iran, and Russia, underscores the high significance of the meeting, especially given the escalating trade conflict with the United States. In light of rising tariffs and shifting economic policies, the collaborative efforts of these nations could play a pivotal role in reshaping global trade dynamics and fostering economic stability in an increasingly uncertain environment.
The big picture:
Leaders from 10 countries, including Iran, are gathering in China for a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
The grouping, with 10 members meeting in the city of Tianjin on Monday and Tuesday, has grown in size and influence over the past 24 years.
What he's saying:
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday said that member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) should pursue mutual benefit and win-win results.
"We need to better align our development strategies and promote the high-quality implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative."
President Xi called on the member states to leverage the strengths of their large markets and economic interconnectedness and enhance trade and investment facilitation.
Key points:
- Russia, Belarus, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are full members.
- Xi Jinping chaired the 25th SCO summit in Tianjin on Monday.
- Xi Jinping’s speech emphasized economic cooperation, trade facilitation, and resistance to Western hegemony.
- With the expansion of its membership, including Iran and Belarus, the SCO bloc now spans Eurasia, representing major global powers.
Go deeper:
The Xinhua News Agency referred to the gathering as “the largest SCO summit in history” on Monday, noting that it aims to “draft a blueprint for the bloc’s development over the next decade.” Leaders from approximately a dozen other countries, including Egypt, Nepal, and several Southeast Asian nations, are participating as dialogue partners or guests.
The summit signals a strategic pivot toward regional alliances that prioritize sovereignty, development, and alternative governance models beyond traditional Western institutions.
Hossein Amiri - seyed mohammad kazemi
