During a routine press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on January 2, China unveiled a new emblem to mark its assumption of the rotating presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) for the 2024-25 term. As the year progresses, China's role in the SCO is set to gain momentum. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that China is accelerating its agenda with a range of initiatives, including hosting a summit focused on "friendship, solidarity and fruitful outcomes." In addition, over 40 institutionalized meetings will be organized to advance the SCO's goals.

Among the primary initiatives outlined by Mao are several high-profile events, including the SCO political parties' forum, a forum on poverty reduction, a forum on people-to-people exchange, and a forum on friendship cities. China will also host an international investment and trade expo, underscoring the importance of fostering economic collaboration within the SCO.

The SCO was established in 2001 as a regional security alliance, primarily focused on combating terrorism, extremism and separatism. Initially, its membership included China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, with the central goal of promoting stability and cooperation in Central Asia. Over time, the SCO has evolved, expanding both its membership and areas of cooperation. Belarus joined as a full member in 2024, bringing the total number of member states to 10. Additionally, the organization now includes two observer countries and 14 dialogue partner nations.

Today, the combined population of SCO member states exceeds 3.3 billion, representing approximately 42 percent of the global population. Together, these nations account for about 25 percent of the world's total economic output, making the SCO the largest and most influential regional cooperation organization in terms of geographic coverage and population.

Over more than two decades, the SCO has considerably broadened its scope, moving beyond its original security-focused mandate. The organization now fosters multifaceted cooperation in economic, cultural and energy sectors, evolving into a strategic platform for collaboration among emerging powers, setting an example of building a new type of international relations. This transformation has bolstered the SCO's global influence. As one of its founding members, China has been a cornerstone in the organization's growth.

Over the past 20 years, China has held the rotating presidency of the SCO four times, with each term driving meaningful progress within the organization. As China assumes the presidency once again, this transition reflects not only the nation's growing comprehensive strength but also the deep trust member states place in its role, especially in its commitment to advancing regional cooperation, stability and prosperity.

The SCO has consistently upheld the Shanghai Spirit of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for the diversity of civilizations and pursuit of common development. By staying attuned to global trends, the SCO continues to align closely with the shared aspirations of developing countries, which seek cooperation and development through inclusive partnerships.

In its place, the SCO promotes a new model of international cooperation—one that rejects the dominance of the strong over the weak and the pursuit of hegemony. Instead, it prioritizes exclusiveness, equal consultation and mutual benefit. This approach helps explain why the SCO continues to attract new members and expand its influence.

As Mao emphasized during the briefing, China has made "action" a central focus of its presidency, committing to take more practical steps and adopt a more proactive approach. This commitment not only accentuates China's sense of responsibility but also outlines a clear vision for the future development of the SCO.

It serves as another testament to China's solutions and strength on the global stage. By championing cooperation and mutual benefit, China is committed to promoting the SCO toward greater unity and progress. Through concrete actions, the country reaffirms that multilateral cooperation is the right path for humanity, and that joint development is a shared aspiration for people worldwide. BR

Copyedited by Elsbeth van Paridon

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