China Hosts Leaders at SCO Summit

The 25th Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) commenced in Tianjin, China, on 31 August, marking the largest gathering of its kind since the organization’s establishment in 2001, according to ANI, a partner of TV BRICS.

The two-day summit brings together heads of state and government from more than 20 countries, reflecting the bloc’s growing influence on global affairs.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly are among the prominent leaders attending.

Also present are leaders from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Laos. Ten major international organizations, including the United Nations, the Eurasian Economic Union, ASEAN, the League of Arab States, and the Collective Security Treaty Organization, are represented at the summit.

Experts highlight that security and economic cooperation will dominate the agenda. Analysts anticipate discussions on strengthening partnerships with regional security organizations, enhancing counter-terrorism measures, and expanding economic integration. Key priorities include developing new trade corridors, deepening interbank cooperation, and advancing the Belt and Road Initiative.

Plans for the creation of an SCO Development Bank are expected to accelerate financial settlements in national currencies and reduce reliance on external systems.

Economic forecasts underscore the growing weight of the SCO. By 2025, the combined GDP of member and partner states is projected to reach US\$82 trillion in terms of purchasing power parity. Observers suggest the summit could mark a turning point in shaping a multipolar world order, with decisions aimed at fostering political, technological, and humanitarian cooperation alongside economic reforms.

The summit is expected to conclude with the adoption of more than 20 key documents, including the Tianjin Declaration and the SCO Development Strategy extending to 2035.

With member nations representing over 40 percent of the global population and more than 30 percent of global GDP, the SCO continues to consolidate its position as a cornerstone of Eurasian cooperation and a pivotal force in international relations.