China’s President Xi Jinping addressed leaders from various countries at a security summit, urging them to stand together against what he termed as “external interference.” This gathering, part of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), aims to counterbalance Western influence, particularly from the United States.
Key Points from Xi’s Address
Emphasis on Unity and Self-Determination
- Resisting Interference: Xi called on SCO members to resist external forces that might seek to divide them.
- Self-Determination: He encouraged countries to take control of their own futures, emphasizing the need to maintain regional peace and development.
- Solidarity: Xi highlighted the importance of unity among member states to address common challenges.
Managing Internal Differences
- Peaceful Resolution: Xi stressed the need for peaceful solutions to internal differences within the bloc.
- Cooperation: He urged members to seek common ground and work together to overcome difficulties.
Source: CCTV News.
Overview of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)
Founding and Purpose
- Establishment: Founded in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
- Original Focus: Initially focused on combating terrorism and enhancing border security.
- Expansion: Over the years, the SCO has evolved into a platform to counter Western influence.
Recent Expansions
- New Members:
- Belarus: Joined the SCO in 2024, supporting Russia in its actions in Ukraine.
- Iran: Became a full member in 2023.
- India and Pakistan: Joined in 2017, marking the first significant expansion of the bloc.
Source: CCTV News.
Key Discussions and Outcomes
Xi’s Warnings and Proposals – Threatens global stability
- Cold War Mentality: Xi warned against the dangers of adopting a Cold War mentality, which he believes threatens global stability.
- Security and Development: Emphasized the need to uphold security and development, despite external pressures.
- Technological Innovation: Urged countries to jointly promote technological advancements and ensure the stability of industrial and supply chains.
China-Russia Relations
- Strengthening Ties: On the eve of the summit, Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted the deepening alignment between China and Russia.
- Historical Context: Putin noted that the SCO’s founding and its rapid expansion underscore its role in establishing a multipolar world order.
- Economic and Military Cooperation: China has become Russia’s top trade partner, and both countries continue to hold joint military exercises, including with Iran.
Source: China Foreign Ministry.
Xi and Putin’s Bilateral Meeting
Highlights from the Meeting
- Best Period in History: Putin described Russia-China relations as being at their best period in history.
- Stabilizing Force: Both leaders agreed that their cooperation serves as a stabilizing factor on the international stage.
- New Defense Pacts: Putin recently signed a defense pact with North Korea, further deepening military ties.
Opposition to External Influence
- Joint Efforts: Xi emphasized that China and Russia should continue to oppose external interference and safeguard regional stability.
- Friendship: Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a lasting friendship and protecting their legitimate rights and interests.
Source: China Foreign Ministry.
Implications for Global Politics
Western Concerns
- US and Europe: The growing alignment between both the countries has raised concerns in the US and Europe, especially regarding their economic and military cooperation.
- Dual-Use Goods: The US has accused China of supplying Russia with goods that could be used for military purposes, a claim that China denies.
Role of the SCO
- Geopolitical Counterweight: The SCO is increasingly seen as a counterweight to Western-led institutions.
- Expanding Influence: With new members and deeper cooperation among existing ones, the SCO aims to challenge the dominance of Western powers in global politics.
Source: China Foreign Ministry.
Conclusion
The recent SCO summit, led by China’s Xi Jinping, emphasized the need for unity among member states against external interference. As the SCO expands, it continues to position itself as a significant geopolitical force opposing Western influence. The strengthening ties between China and Russia, along with new defense and economic agreements, highlight the shifting dynamics in global politics.
References:
- CCTV News: Link to CCTV News
- China Foreign Ministry: Link to China Foreign Ministry
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