Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek, is hosting the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on October 25–26. The meeting comes at a critical time as the world faces significant changes and challenges. It aims to provide a crucial forum for dialogue and collaboration in an era of shifting alliances and geopolitical concerns. The need for unity, peace, and cooperation is more pressing than ever.
The meeting highlights the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle pressing global issues. From ongoing geopolitical tensions to challenges like climate change, the SCO provides a platform for member countries to work together towards peaceful resolutions and sustainable development.
Founded in 2001, the SCO is a regional platform that includes Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, and Iran, representing 40 percent of the world’s population. The combined GDP of member nations accounts for about 30 percent of the global economy, reflecting a 13-fold increase since its establishment.
The organization has become an active and influential multilateral platform, as evidenced by its expansion. After Iran joined the SCO this year, countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Vietnam, and Belarus have expressed intentions to join the organization. The SCO’s popularity across Asia is attributed to its focus on security and economic cooperation. Many countries, especially in the Middle East, are registering as dialogue partners, observers, and members. With its growing size and influence, the SCO continues to demonstrate effective regional cooperation where nations find common ground for mutual benefit.
In this context, China’s contributions have played a significant role in consolidating the strength of all parties and fostering the steady growth of the SCO. Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Kyrgyzstan on October 24 to attend the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of SCO member states and to visit the country from October 24 to 27 at the invitation of Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov.
Amid a complex international environment, regional nations are looking to the SCO to safeguard their security and development interests. Li’s visit is expected to strengthen contacts and mutual understanding among member states. The visit emphasizes China’s commitment to international diplomacy and global responsibility.
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SCO meeting in Kyrgyzstan will ignite a new spirit of cooperation
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