The 24th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit is in full swing in Astana, Kazakhstan, marking a significant milestone with the admission of Belarus as its 10th full member. The two-day event, which began on July 3, has brought together leaders from across Eurasia, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.A key focus of the summit is the discussion of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s initiative for a new Eurasian security system. This proposal, first introduced by Putin in June, aims to address complex regional issues and promote mutual trust. The summit is also reviewing the organization’s work in 2023-2024, strengthening cooperation in various fields, and exchanging views on major global and regional issues.The SCO, founded in 2001, now comprises ten member states: Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran, and the newly admitted Belarus. The organization represents half of the world’s population and is seen as a counterbalance to Western alliances, focusing on security and economic cooperation.As part of the summit proceedings, leaders are expected to sign 24 documents, including the Declaration of Astana. The event also features a ‘SCO plus’ session, involving observer states and dialogue partners.Following this summit, China will assume the rotating presidency of the SCO for the 2024-2025 period, potentially influencing the organization’s future direction and priorities.
Key points
- Belarus has become the 10th full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
- The SCO summit is discussing Putin’s initiative for a new Eurasian security system.
- Leaders are expected to sign 24 documents, including the Declaration of Astana.
- China will take over the SCO presidency for 2024-2025 after this summit.
