Xi urges SCO members to defy Western dominance

(MENAFN) Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to stand against "hegemonism and power politics" and work toward a more just global system. His remarks came on Monday as he opened the SCO leaders’ summit in Tianjin.

In his keynote address to leaders and representatives from member and partner states, Xi emphasized the importance of the “Shanghai spirit,” which he defined as mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diverse cultures, and shared development.

Xi commended the organization’s progress since its creation in 2001 and introduced key goals for the future. He urged members to reject Cold War-era thinking, bloc rivalries, and coercive practices—phrases commonly used by Beijing in criticism of Western, particularly U.S., foreign policy.

“We should work together to build a more equal and orderly multipolar world and promote an inclusive form of globalization that benefits all,” Xi said. He stressed the need for reforming global governance to make it more fair and balanced.

The Chinese leader also highlighted the importance of respecting national differences, deepening people-to-people exchanges, and improving SCO efficiency through evidence-based policymaking.

Xi noted that the SCO’s collective economic output has grown to $30 trillion and said the bloc’s global influence continues to rise. He emphasized joint efforts among member states to tackle security threats, environmental challenges, and innovation needs.

Trade between China and other SCO countries has surpassed $2.3 trillion, Xi revealed, and he pointed to major infrastructure and development projects under the Belt and Road Initiative as key areas of cooperation. He also committed to expanding investments in education and scientific training to sustain future growth.

The summit, hosted by China, includes participation from over 20 nations across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, along with representatives from major international organizations like the United Nations and ASEAN.

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