Introduction, At a time when global tensions are rising, Chinese President Xi Jinping has highlighted the pivotal role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in promoting peace, security, and cooperation. Addressing the organization’s recent gathering, Xi stressed that the SCO now carries a “greater responsibility” in maintaining peace—not only in Central Asia but across the broader international stage. His remarks come amid ongoing geopolitical challenges, including regional conflicts, economic uncertainty, and shifting alliances.
What is the SCO?
Founded in 2001, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization is a regional political, economic, and security alliance comprising China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. In recent years, it has expanded its outreach, welcoming Iran as a full member and engaging with several observer states like Afghanistan, Belarus, and Mongolia.
The SCO was initially established to strengthen trust among member states, address border security concerns, and combat terrorism. However, over the past two decades, its agenda has broadened, covering trade, energy cooperation, cultural exchanges, and digital innovation.
Xi Jinping’s Message: Peace as a Shared Duty
In his address, Xi emphasized that the SCO should not only serve as a platform for cooperation but also act as a guardian of peace and stability. He argued that the organization’s collective strength and diversity make it uniquely positioned to mediate conflicts, counter extremism, and encourage economic collaboration.
Xi also pointed out that, with rising geopolitical rivalries, the SCO must stand against unilateralism and external interference, promoting a multipolar world order where no single country dominates global affairs.
“The SCO must shoulder its greater responsibility in safeguarding peace, promoting justice, and ensuring development,” Xi reportedly said.
Challenges Ahead for the SCO
While Xi’s vision is ambitious, the SCO faces several internal and external challenges:
- India-China Tensions: Despite being members, relations between India and China remain strained, particularly over border disputes.
- Russia-West Rivalry: Russia’s conflict in Ukraine has created diplomatic complexities for SCO members trying to balance their positions.
- Economic Imbalances: Smaller Central Asian states often struggle to align their economic policies with the larger powers within the organization.
- Terrorism & Security Threats: Extremism in Afghanistan and instability in surrounding regions continue to pose risks.
Nonetheless, the SCO remains one of the few multilateral organizations that bring together China, Russia, and India—three major powers with differing worldviews.
Why the SCO Matters Globally
The growing importance of the SCO can be seen in its strategic geographic coverage, which spans Eurasia—a region central to global trade routes and energy supplies. The organization has also taken steps to promote infrastructure development under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), enhance digital cooperation, and encourage cultural exchanges to deepen mutual understanding.
For many analysts, the SCO could evolve into a counterweight to Western alliances such as NATO and the EU, particularly as it prioritizes non-interference in domestic affairs and respect for sovereignty.
The Way Forward
If the SCO succeeds in balancing the interests of its diverse members, it could become a powerful force for conflict resolution, trade facilitation, and global peacekeeping. Xi Jinping’s call for greater responsibility highlights China’s intention to play a leading role in shaping the SCO’s future.
For countries in Asia and beyond, this means increased opportunities for economic partnerships, but also the need to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics within the bloc.
Conclusion
Xi Jinping’s message to the SCO underscores the organization’s growing influence in global affairs. While challenges remain, its potential as a platform for peace, security, and cooperation cannot be overlooked. As global power balances shift, the SCO’s actions in the coming years will be crucial in determining whether it can truly live up to the “greater responsibility” outlined by Xi.
