Chinese President Xi Jinping outlined a vision for reforming global governance systems during his keynote address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Plus meeting in Tianjin on September 1, 2025. The speech coincided with commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the World Anti-Fascist War victory and the United Nations' founding.
A New Framework for International Cooperation
President Xi proposed a five-point Global Governance Initiative (GGI), emphasizing sovereign equality, adherence to international law, and multilateralism. 'We should maintain that all countries are equal participants in global governance,' he stated, advocating for increased representation of developing nations in international decision-making.
SCO's Expanding Role
Highlighting the organization's 24-year evolution, Xi noted the SCO's growing influence in shaping global governance through its commitment to the 'Shanghai Spirit.' The bloc announced new cooperation platforms including energy transition programs, AI development centers, and space exploration initiatives through the International Lunar Research Station project.
Concrete Commitments
China pledged to:
Create three major cooperation centers for tech innovation and education
Expand renewable energy capacity by 20 million kilowatts within SCO nations by 2030
Provide medical support including 10,000 cancer screenings for member states
Countering Modern Challenges
The address called for collective action against 'Cold War mentalities' and protectionism, positioning the SCO as a stabilizing force. Xi emphasized the need to 'dismantle walls, not erect them' in economic cooperation while announcing expanded Belt and Road initiatives.
