Summary of the SCO Summit in Tianjin, China
This article details the 2023 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in tianjin, China, highlighting its significance in a shifting global landscape. here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:
Key Themes & SCO’s Role:
Increased obligation: xi Jinping emphasized the SCO’s growing role in maintaining regional peace and stability, strengthening member unity, and promoting global progress.
Largest Summit Yet: The summit was the largest in SCO history, comprising its 10 member states (China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kirgistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Belarus) plus 16 dialog/observer countries.
Countering Global Trade Tensions: The summit occurred amidst US trade tensions, prompting countries to seek choice trading partners.
Evolving Forum: SCO has evolved into a platform for economic and security cooperation, with China expanding its economic influence and Russia relying on it to maintain Central Asian ties, especially due to the war in Ukraine.
India’s chance: The summit provided india with a significant platform,especially given strained relations with the US due to tariffs. Modi’s visit marked his first to China in seven years.
Multilateralism & China’s Role: UN Secretary-General Guterres affirmed the importance of multilateralism and lauded China as a fundamental pillar of the international system.
Bilateral Meetings & Key Discussions:
Russia-China: Described as having their “best relationship in history,” both countries rejected Western sanctions. Russia is increasingly reliant on China economically due to the war in Ukraine.
Türkiye-China: Discussions focused on Chinese investment in Türkiye, as well as regional conflicts like Gaza, ukraine, and rebuilding Syria. Both countries emphasized independent growth.
Azerbaijan-China: Azerbaijan sought to strengthen its strategic partnership with China, focusing on the Trans-Kaspia transportation route and energy cooperation. China supports Azerbaijan’s full SCO membership and recognizes Nagorn-Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan.
Armenia-China: Armenia elevated its relationship with China to a strategic partnership, aiming for increased cooperation in areas like Belt and Road, connectivity, and cultural exchange. china supports Armenia’s expanded role within the SCO.
* Taiwan: Both Azerbaijan and Armenia reaffirmed their adherence to the “one-China principle,” recognizing Taiwan as part of China, despite Taiwan’s self-governance and assertions of sovereignty.
the summit demonstrates the SCO’s growing importance as a counterweight to Western influence and a platform for cooperation among nations seeking alternative economic and security partnerships.
