Build a Stronger SCO
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) stands as a formidable testament to the power of unity and cooperation in an increasingly multipolar world.
Since its inception in 2001, the SCO has steadfastly committed to fostering good-neighborly relations, mutual trust, and collective security among its member states. This article explores the path forward for the SCO, emphasizing the principles and strategies needed to build a stronger, more cohesive organization.
The SCO’s guiding principles, encapsulated in the Shanghai Spirit, emphasize mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for cultural diversity, and the pursuit of common development. These principles are not merely rhetorical; they have shaped the organization’s trajectory and underpinned its successes over the past two decades. The SCO’s dedication to these values has fostered a platform for addressing security concerns while promoting economic, scientific, technological, energy, and environmental cooperation.
President Xi Jinping, in the fourth volume of “The Governance of China,” particularly in the chapter “Build a Stronger SCO,” reaffirms these principles, urging member states to uphold the Shanghai Spirit as they navigate an evolving international landscape. He emphasizes that mutual political trust is the bedrock of the SCO, advocating for a model of partnership and dialogue that transcends traditional alliances and confrontations.
A key aspect of building a stronger SCO lies in enhancing solidarity and cooperation among member states. The organization’s impressive growth and its potential for broader cooperation with international groupings such as the United Nations, G20, BRICS, NATO, and ASEAN underscore its significant role on the global stage. This expansion, however, comes with structural challenges that require innovative solutions.
President Xi stresses the need for strengthening policy dialogue, consultation, and coordination at various levels. He advocates for respecting each other’s legitimate concerns and resolving issues promptly to ensure smooth cooperation. This approach is crucial in maintaining the SCO’s steady course of development and reinforcing its role as a stabilizing force in the region.
The SCO has evolved into one of the most rapidly developing centers of the multipolar world. With its eight member states and an expanding circle of observer states, this organization has grown to encompass broader cooperation with other international groupings. This expansion reflects the SCO’s great potential amidst substantial structural challenges. It is a platform where large and diverse nation-states, often with competing geostrategic agendas, come together to forge a path toward harmonious coexistence and sustainable development.
Security remains a paramount concern for the SCO. The organization has been at the forefront of combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism, taking tough actions to curb these threats. The SCO’s pioneering role in addressing these security challenges highlights the importance of continued vigilance and collaboration.
President Xi elaborates on this, calling for a comprehensive approach to regional security that includes tackling drug trafficking, cybercrime, and transnational organized crime. He highlights the need for joint counter-terrorism exercises and enhanced border control operations. Furthermore, the SCO must support political settlements for international and regional conflicts, thereby contributing to global peace and stability.
Economic cooperation is another cornerstone of the SCO’s mission. The organization’s efforts to promote economic, scientific, and technological collaboration are vital for regional prosperity. The SCO’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to trade, investment, and innovation is evident in its numerous initiatives and agreements.
President Xi, in his comprehensive vision, calls for deeper economic integration among SCO countries. He advocates for trade and investment liberalization, secure and orderly flow of people, goods, capital, and data, and the creation of growth drivers in areas like the digital economy, green energy, and modern agriculture. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a significant platform in this regard, offering opportunities for member states to synergize their development strategies and achieve shared goals.
The strength of the SCO also lies in the mutual understanding and bonds among its peoples. Cultural, educational, and scientific exchanges play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and shared destiny. Programs such as the SCO University and the SCO Forum on Traditional Medicine exemplify the organization’s commitment to people-to-people connectivity.
The SCO’s focus on people-to-people exchanges is not limited to academic and cultural initiatives. The organization also supports a range of activities designed to foster mutual understanding and friendship among the peoples of its member states. By encouraging dialogue and cooperation in areas such as traditional medicine, education, and poverty alleviation, the SCO helps to build a bridge of mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of its member states.
In an era marked by shifting power dynamics and geopolitical tensions, the SCO’s commitment to upholding international justice is more critical than ever. The organization’s advocacy for multilateralism and opposition to hegemony and power politics is vital for maintaining a rules-based international order that respects the sovereignty and equality of all nations.
The SCO’s stance on international justice is not merely theoretical; it is backed by concrete actions and policies. The organization has maintained close coordination with SCO observer states and dialogue partners, as well as with international and regional organizations that share its purposes and principles. By working with other members of the international community in pursuit of a shared future, the SCO contributes to the quest for durable global peace and common prosperity.
The SCO stands at a new historic starting point, poised to contribute even more significantly to global peace and prosperity. The organization is more than just a collective of member states; it is a beacon of hope for those who believe in the power of collective action and shared goals.
The SCO’s future success will depend on its ability to adapt to changing global dynamics while remaining true to its foundational principles. By continuing to promote mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity, and the pursuit of common development, the SCO can ensure that it remains a powerful force for good in the world. The SCO’s journey over the past two decades has been marked by significant achievements and milestones. Its continued success will depend on the collective efforts of its member states to uphold the Shanghai Spirit and work together toward a shared vision of peace, prosperity, and development. The path to a stronger SCO is clear, and with steadfast commitment and cooperation, the organization can continue to play a vital role in shaping a better future for all.
