Xi calls for economic collaboration amid US tariffs

(MENAFN) Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to capitalize on their “mega-size markets” and boost economic cooperation in response to US tariffs.

Xi delivered his remarks during the opening address at the 25th SCO summit in Tianjin, China, which is attended by leaders from the bloc’s ten member states, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“The SCO member states are all friends and partners,” Xi stated, encouraging members to respect differences, maintain strategic communication, build consensus, and enhance solidarity and cooperation.

His comments come as US tariffs continue to affect global markets, with Washington pursuing bilateral agreements with other nations. Xi called for upholding “fairness” and “justice,” adding, “We must promote a correct historical perspective on World War II and oppose the Cold War mentality, bloc confrontation and bullying practices.”

Advocating for “mutual benefit and win-win results,” Xi emphasized the importance of protecting the UN-centered international system and supporting the multilateral trading framework led by the World Trade Organization. He urged SCO members to focus on common ground while setting aside disagreements.

Highlighting the bloc’s economic significance, Xi noted that the SCO involves 26 countries, cooperation spans over 50 areas, and the combined economic output approaches $30 trillion. “Its international influence and appeal are increasing day by day,” he added.

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