On September 1, the Public Energy Center "Vezha" hosted an extended analytical discussion with expert Petro Oleshchuk. The main topic was the geopolitics of change and China's intentions to propose a constructive model for post-war world order at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit.
Participants noted the symbolism of China's initiative, as the announcement is linked to the end of World War II—a meaningful milestone in Chinese historiography. China seeks to position itself as not just an alternative to the US, but as a guarantor of a new world order based on sovereignty and regime stability, departing from Western values.
The discussion compared SCO and BRICS, highlighting that SCO is seen by China as the foundation for a potential alliance—an Asian prototype of NATO, with like-minded regimes. China aims to develop its global role and international security strategy centered on its own model and vision.
India plays an important pragmatic role, balancing relations with both China and Russia. Despite geopolitical disputes, Prime Minister Modi demonstrates engagement with Asia-centric initiatives, remaining tactically flexible on strategic partnerships.
The conversation emphasized the economic dimension of India-Russia cooperation, particularly the import of Russian oil despite sanctions. Much of these oil products reach European markets through India, undermining the effectiveness of sanctions on Russia.
Experts stressed that the EU, despite public unity, often struggles to make tough decisions due to internal lobbying and conflicting interests among member states; as a result, Russian economic interests persist in Europe amid the war in Ukraine.
In conclusion, experts noted the long-term nature of changes initiated by China and the importance of monitoring developments at both Asian summits and the European leaders' meeting in Paris on September 4, where the consequences of China’s initiative for global security will likely be discussed.