Kyrgyzstan's vibrant capital, Bishkek, is set to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government from October 25–26. In a world facing unprecedented changes and challenges, this summit promises to be a pivotal platform for fostering debate and collaboration.
As global alliances shift and geopolitical tensions rise, the importance of unity, peace, and cooperation has never been more crucial. The SCO meeting will address pressing issues such as the Palestine-Israel conflict, the Russia-Ukraine situation, and the urgent need to combat climate change. Leaders are emphasizing the importance of regional and global partnerships to overcome wars, crises, and other global threats.
Founded in 2001, the SCO now includes Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, and Iran, representing 40% of the world's population and contributing to 30% of the global GDP—a significant growth since its inception. The organization's expansion continues, with countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Vietnam, and Belarus expressing interest in joining, highlighting the SCO's rising influence in Asia through its focus on security and economic cooperation.
This year's addition of Iran has further solidified the SCO's position as a leading multilateral platform. The organization's growing membership underscores its effectiveness in fostering regional cooperation and mutual benefits, much to the disappointment of some Western powers who prefer a more unilateral world order.
China plays a pivotal role in the SCO's steady growth, with Chinese Premier Li Qiang arriving in Bishkek on October 24 to attend the summit. Invited by Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov, Premier Li's visit underscores China's commitment to international diplomacy and its responsibility on the global stage.
In today's complex international environment, regional nations are increasingly relying on the SCO to safeguard their security and development interests. The summit aims to strengthen contacts and foster mutual understandings among member states, highlighting the SCO's role in promoting peace and sustainable growth.
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SCO meeting in Kyrgyzstan will ignite a new spirit of cooperation
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