Belarus officially joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on Thursday, becoming its 10th member state. The expansion marks a significant development in the Eurasian political and economic landscape.
The announcement was made during the annual SCO summit held in Bishkek, where leaders of member states welcomed Belarus into the organization. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko expressed optimism about the country’s new role, stating, “Joining the SCO opens up new avenues for cooperation and development for Belarus. We look forward to contributing to regional stability and prosperity.“
The SCO, founded in 2001, is a regional alliance that focuses on political, economic, and security cooperation. With Belarus’s inclusion, the organization aims to bolster its influence and address shared challenges such as regional security, trade facilitation, and cultural exchange.
Experts believe that Belarus’s membership may enhance connectivity between Europe and Asia, providing new opportunities for trade and investment. “Belarus’s strategic location serves as a bridge between the East and the West,” commented Dr. Li Wei, a researcher at the Institute of International Studies. “Their participation in the SCO could lead to increased economic collaboration across the region.“
The other member states of the SCO include China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, and Iran. Observer countries and dialogue partners also participate in various capacities, reflecting the organization’s growing reach.
The next steps for Belarus involve integrating into the SCO’s framework and participating in upcoming initiatives. The move is seen as a testament to the organization’s appeal and the evolving dynamics of regional alliances in the 21st century.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
