The 25th anniversary summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) took place in Tianjin, bringing together representatives from over 20 countries, including members and observers. The summit's main message was the formation of a new political bloc led by China, aimed at countering the United States and recent international initiatives.
Despite notable participation and rhetoric about "unity," the final declaration did not include any concrete decisions or agreements. Much attention was given to issues of nuclear non-proliferation and security, as well as efforts to shape new frameworks for interstate interaction.
In addition to SCO meetings, there was a bilateral session between Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, during which 20 documents were signed, including agreements on energy cooperation such as the "Power of Siberia 2" project. These developments indicate efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.
The summit also highlighted the complex dynamics within the "counter-West" bloc. For instance, India uses its participation in the SCO and BRICS to bolster its own international standing, even as it officially takes part in joint initiatives with China and Russia.
Special attention was given to China's and Russia's role in World War II, with Xi Jinping reiterating that both countries contributed significantly to the defeat of Nazi Germany and victory over Japan. China has increasingly invoked this narrative to strengthen its influence in international organizations, particularly the UN Security Council.
In conclusion, the summit's main outcome was the demonstration of a desire to create an alternative system of international relations amid ongoing global polarization and a rise in pragmatic interstate ties across Eurasia.
