Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of unity and resistance to external interference during his address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) annual leaders' summit in Kazakhstan. The SCO, established in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, aims to combat terrorism and enhance border security in the region.
Xi Jinping called on member states to consolidate unity in the face of challenges posed by interference and division. He highlighted the need for internal differences to be managed peacefully, common ground to be sought, and cooperation difficulties to be resolved.
The SCO has evolved from a regional security organization focused on Central Asia to a geopolitical counterbalance to Western institutions, with recent expansions welcoming countries like India, Pakistan, and Belarus. Xi Jinping warned against Cold War mentalities and emphasized the importance of upholding security baselines and promoting scientific and technological innovation.
During the summit, Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed their countries' deepening alignment and cooperation. Putin described Russia-China relations as a stabilizing force on the international stage and emphasized the SCO's role in promoting a just multipolar world order.
China and Russia have strengthened their political, economic, and military ties, with China becoming Russia's top trade partner. The two nations have conducted joint military exercises, drawing concern from the US and Europe over potential support for Russia's military activities in Ukraine.
Xi Jinping and Putin reiterated the importance of their countries' friendship and vowed to oppose external interference while safeguarding regional stability. They pledged to enhance comprehensive strategic coordination and uphold international norms in their relations.
