The SCO's rise as a geopolitical game-changer

By Imran Khalid

The 23rd meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), set to be hosted by India on July 4, has assumed global attention. The significance of this event, which is passing through the second phase of its possible expansion, amplifies the anticipation among the regional countries that are eager to decipher the potential implications for regional dynamics and the broader geopolitical landscape.

With the SCO serving as a platform for dialogue and cooperation among its member states, the virtual format underscores the continued importance of international engagement despite the challenges posed by physical limitations.

The SCO, founded in 2001, has seen a consistent rise in membership. It stands as a multifaceted entity encompassing politics, economics, international security and defense across Eurasia. Emerging from the Shanghai Five which was established in 1996 by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Tajikistan, the SCO took shape on June 15, 2001 when these nations along with Uzbekistan convened in Shanghai. Their objective was to foster heightened political and economic cooperation.

The SCO Charter, signed on July 7, 2002 and enforced on September 19, 2003, marked the organization's formal establishment. Since then, its membership has expanded to eight states, with India and Pakistan becoming members on June 9, 2017. 

The SCO now has eight full member states, four observer states, and 14 dialogue partners. Belarus is applying to join the SCO, while Iran's permanent membership will be finalized in early July.

The remarkable ascent of the SCO undeniably marks a triumph in the realm of Eurasian collaborations. While challenges persist, the SCO has made considerable strides since its inception, working to grapple with crucial matters including intra-member unity, economic quandaries, and bolstering its institutional framework. Such endeavors have not only enhanced the organization's regional prominence but have also heralded an era of revitalized regionalism.

As the SCO perseveres in its journey, it is poised to harness its collective potential, fostering an environment conducive to comprehensive cooperation, ultimately paving the way for a more prosperous future. As the SCO evolves, it remains poised to redefine the global landscape, guided by the principles of shared prosperity and harmony among nations.

As the largest regional organization, encompassing more than 30 percent of the global GDP, 60 percent of the Eurasian landmass, and 40 percent of the world population, the SCO holds immense strategic significance. The member states of this expansive partnership that spans vast Eurasian territories are increasingly viewing it not just as a regional security platform, but as an evolving forum for even greater regional economic cooperation. The SCO represents a vast reservoir of untapped economic possibilities rather than a mere security-focused entity.

Last year's summit marked a pivotal moment as member states initiated the drive to redefine the SCO's purpose, envisioning it as an organization with broader economic and infrastructure objectives. These ambitious goals encompass the promotion of new transportation routes, the diversification of connectivity channels, the assurance of stable supply chains, and the facilitation of expansive growth opportunities.

By embracing an economic and infrastructure-oriented approach, the SCO aims to unleash its potential as a driving force for regional development. With a steadfast focus on fostering cross-border cooperation, the organization seeks to capitalize on the diverse resources and capabilities of its member states. By facilitating the movement of goods, services, and ideas, the SCO endeavors to create an environment conducive to sustained growth and prosperity. By leveraging its collective strength, the organization can stimulate investment, promote technological innovation, and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive as well.

As the SCO ventures into economic territories, it carries the promise of unlocking new horizons for growth generation and fostering an atmosphere of shared prosperity among its member states.

Broadening of focus and recalibration of the SCO's goals reflect a more inclusive and cooperative approach, emphasizing the well-being and economic interests of all member states. The SCO stands out for its ethos of openness and inclusivity. Building upon the momentum generated during the previous year's summit in Samarkand, the 2023 Summit is expected to continue with deliberations on the second phase of SCO expansion.

The SCO has garnered widespread admiration for its adherence to the "three no's principles" — no alliance, no confrontation, and no targeting any third party. These principles have resonated with numerous nations, as they provide a foundation for cooperation and harmony.

The SCO's evolution from a cooperative mechanism focused on combating the "three forces of terrorism, separatism and extremism" to a multifaceted vehicle encompassing the realms of politics, security, economics, and humanities is no mere coincidence. It is a testament to the organization's astute navigation of complex issues, which has facilitated a holistic approach to regional development and engendered goodwill among its diverse member states.

Remarkably, countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have expressed a keen desire to join its ranks. The SCO's resilience stands as a testament to its ability to transcend political, historical and cultural differences, including territorial disputes and ideological divergences.

Imran Khalid, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a freelance columnist on international affairs.