Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech on Monday at the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in the northern Chinese mainland port city of Tianjin.
In a dynamic address to leaders from eight member states and four observers, Xi emphasized the importance of collective security, economic cooperation, and digital connectivity across Eurasia. He outlined key priorities for the SCO to remain a driving force in global stability.
Building a Security Partnership
Xi called for:
- Enhanced intelligence sharing to combat terrorism and transnational crime
- Joint military exercises focused on peacekeeping and disaster relief
- Strengthening border management systems
Boosting Economic Integration
Highlighting data showing up to 25% year-on-year growth in intra-SCO trade, Xi urged:
- Expanded infrastructure networks under the Belt and Road Initiative
- Simplified customs procedures through a unified digital platform
- Investment in green energy projects across member states
Embracing Digital Connectivity
As digital innovation reshapes markets:
- He proposed a new SCO Digital Union to foster tech startups
- Called for cross-border e-commerce tariff reductions
- Advocated collaborative research in AI and 5G
Xi’s remarks set a clear agenda for the coming year, positioning the SCO as a hub for pragmatic cooperation and cultural exchange. Young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads watching from around the world will be keen to see how these initiatives unfold beyond Tianjin.
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Xi delivers keynote speech at SCO Council of Heads of State meeting
cgtn.com
