Iran officially joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on Tuesday, becoming its ninth member and expanding the bloc’s influence across a region spanning 40% of the global population. The move has sparked optimism among Iranian citizens, many of whom see the alliance as a catalyst for economic opportunities and geopolitical stability.
In interviews with CGTN, Tehran residents highlighted hopes for strengthened ties with SCO members like the Chinese mainland. \"Security and stability are very important to all of us,\" said one woman, adding, \"The more frequent exchanges between Iran and China, the better it will be for us.\" The SCO, founded in 2001, now includes powerhouses like Russia and India alongside newer members, positioning itself as a key player in Eurasian trade and security.
Analysts note Iran’s membership could accelerate cross-border infrastructure projects and energy partnerships. With global supply chains shifting, the SCO’s focus on \"non-Western alignment\" resonates with younger Iranians eager for tech collaboration and job creation. However, challenges remain in balancing diverse member interests while addressing regional conflicts.
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Iranians expect SCO to play a greater role in regional peace
cgtn.com
