The upcoming Astana Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is poised to open new prospects for cooperation among its member states. With an expanding membership that currently includes nine member countries, three observer states, and fourteen dialogue partners across Asia, Europe, and Africa, the SCO continues to demonstrate its growing global influence.
Representing over 40 percent of the world’s population and accounting for a quarter of the global economy, SCO member states have become significant players on the international stage. Since its inception, the SCO has been guided by the “Shanghai Spirit,” emphasizing mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for cultural diversity, and a desire for common development.
The Astana Summit is expected to further this spirit by focusing on shared development goals. SCO member countries face critical tasks related to national development and economic revitalization. By strengthening their collective progress, the SCO aims to create a shared circle of development that benefits all members.
Economic and trade cooperation within the SCO has yielded impressive results. By 2021, the combined GDP of SCO member states had surged to approximately $23.3 trillion, more than thirteen times its initial size. In the last 20 years, the total foreign trade volume among SCO members increased nearly one hundredfold. China’s direct investment in other SCO member states exceeded $37.5 billion by mid-2022, highlighting the deepening economic ties.
China, as a founding member of the SCO, has played a pivotal role in propelling the organization’s progress. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) exemplifies practical cooperation among SCO members, with many countries in the organization being early participants. Trade and investment have surged, with China-Central Asia trade reaching nearly $90 billion in 2023—a 27.2 percent year-on-year increase and a historical high.
Key infrastructure projects, such as the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway and the Central Asia–China Gas Pipeline, along with the regular operation of China-Europe freight trains, have significantly enhanced connectivity among SCO members. Beyond economic cooperation, the SCO has established numerous consultation mechanisms and cultural exchange events, fostering deeper mutual understanding and friendship among its peoples.
As the SCO continues to evolve, the Astana Summit represents a crucial opportunity for member states to build on past successes and explore new avenues for cooperation. By adhering to the Shanghai Spirit and focusing on common development, the SCO is well-positioned to enhance regional stability and prosperity.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
