Belarus officially joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on Thursday, becoming the regional bloc’s 10th member state.
The inclusion of Belarus marks a significant expansion of the SCO, which was established in 2001 to promote political, economic, and security cooperation across Eurasia. The organization now comprises China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran, and Belarus.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko attended the official ceremony held in Beijing, where he emphasized the importance of multilateral collaboration in addressing regional challenges. “Joining the SCO opens new avenues for Belarus to strengthen ties with member states and contribute to regional stability and prosperity,” Lukashenko stated.
The decision to admit Belarus was welcomed by other member countries. Chinese Premier Li Qiang noted that Belarus’s membership would enhance the SCO’s capacity to foster mutual trust and economic development within the region.
Expanding Economic Opportunities
Belarus’s accession is expected to bolster economic cooperation within the SCO framework. As a key transit country between Europe and Asia, Belarus offers strategic advantages for trade and transportation networks, including the Belt and Road Initiative.
Economists anticipate increased investment and trade flows among member states, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and energy. “Belarus brings valuable expertise in industrial production and technology,” said Dr. Anil Sharma, a senior analyst at the Center for Eurasian Studies. “Its inclusion could stimulate new partnerships and economic projects within the SCO.”
Strengthening Security Collaboration
In addition to economic benefits, Belarus’s membership is seen as a step toward enhancing regional security cooperation. The SCO has been instrumental in coordinating efforts to combat terrorism, extremism, and drug trafficking.
“Belarus has experience in addressing security concerns that are pertinent to the region,” commented Natalia Petrova, a security expert based in Moscow. “Its participation in the SCO’s security framework will contribute to a more unified approach to common threats.”
Looking Ahead
Belarus’s full membership in the SCO reflects the organization’s growing influence in global affairs. As the SCO continues to expand, it underscores the shifting dynamics of regional alliances and the importance of multilateral institutions in addressing complex global challenges.
For business professionals and investors, Belarus’s accession may signal new opportunities for engagement in Eurasian markets. Academics and researchers will be observing how this development affects geopolitical relations and economic trends in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
