The 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in Tianjin, China, marked milestone in regional diplomacy and cooperation. Leaders from 23 countries and 10 international organisations gathered to renew commitments towards security, development, and multilateral governance. The summit produced key initiatives aimed at encouraging sustainable growth and addressing global challenges.
The SCO and Its Growing Influence
Since its inception 24 years ago, the SCO has become the world’s largest regional organisation. It promotes peace, stability, and economic development across Eurasia. The 2025 Tianjin Summit was the largest in the organisation’s history, reflecting its expanding role. The meeting focused on enhancing solidarity and friendship among member states.
Key Outcomes of the Tianjin Summit
The summit adopted the Tianjin Declaration, establishing four new security centres. These include the SCO Universal Center for Countering Security Challenges and Threats and the SCO Anti-drug Center. A new SCO Development Bank was also announced to support regional projects. Member states expressed strong support for the multilateral trading system and reaffirmed respect for the outcomes of the Second World War.
Development Strategy and Cooperation Initiatives
Leaders agreed on a development strategy for the next decade. China committed to creating three major cooperation platforms in energy, green industry, and the digital economy. Additionally, three cooperation centres will focus on scientific innovation, higher education, and vocational training. These initiatives aim to boost sustainable development and technological progress across SCO countries.
Global Governance and Multilateralism
China introduced the Global Governance Initiative during the summit. It emphasises sovereign equality, international rule of law, and a people-centred approach. The initiative calls for practical actions to address global governance deficits. SCO members showed support for strengthening multilateralism and cooperative global leadership.
Strengthening China-India Relations
The summit coincided with the 75th anniversary of China-India diplomatic ties. Both countries expressed a commitment to deepen their partnership. Leaders agreed to build strategic mutual trust, expand cooperation in trade, technology, education, and culture, and maintain peace along their borders. They stressed that bilateral differences should not hinder collaboration or regional stability.
Future Cooperation and BRICS Collaboration
China and India, as major developing nations, share common goals in global peace and development. With India and China holding the BRICS presidency in the upcoming years, both countries pledged to support each other. They aim to strengthen BRICS cooperation, uphold international justice, and oppose hegemonic practices. The partnership seeks to contribute to a shared future for humanity.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the role of regional organisations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in enhancing global security and economic development.
- Critically examine the importance of multilateralism in contemporary global governance. How do initiatives like the Global Governance Initiative address current challenges?
- Explain the significance of India-China relations in the context of regional stability and economic cooperation. With suitable examples, discuss the impact of bilateral ties on global diplomacy.
- Comment on the role of BRICS as a platform for cooperation among emerging economies. How can India and China leverage their presidencies to promote inclusive global development?
