The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, scheduled for August 31 to September 1, 2025, is poised to become a defining moment in Eurasian geopolitics. With leaders from over 20 countries and 10 international organizations attending – including UN Secretary-General António Guterres – the event underscores the bloc’s transformation into a key player shaping global governance.
From Regional Security to Global Stage
Originally established in 2001 to address Central Asian security concerns, the SCO now represents 42% of humanity and 23% of global GDP across its Eurasian member states. The Tianjin gathering marks its largest-ever participation, reflecting growing international recognition of its economic and diplomatic clout.
Economic Engine for the Global South
Key infrastructure projects like the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and proposed development bank highlight the SCO’s push for regional connectivity. These initiatives offer alternative development models at a time when 72% of World Bank respondents cite trade protectionism as a growth barrier, particularly following recent U.S. policy shifts.
Multilateralism in Action
As Western-led institutions face credibility challenges, the SCO’s consensus-driven approach attracts emerging economies. The summit’s agenda includes counterterrorism strategies, climate resilience plans, and digital economy frameworks – addressing universal concerns through regional cooperation mechanisms.
