Chinese President Xi Jinping, speaking at the SCO annual meeting in Astana on Thursday, emphasised the importance of safeguarding the right to development amidst global challenges. He urged the bloc to manage internal differences peacefully, seek common ground, and address cooperation difficulties.
Putin’s Vision for a New Security System
Russian President Vladimir Putin was set to discuss his proposal for creating a new Eurasian security system during the SCO meeting. This initiative aims to establish a set of collective security treaties open to all countries on the continent, including NATO members. Putin’s plan focuses on gradually removing all external military presence from Eurasia, with a clear reference to the United States. Last month, Putin highlighted the necessity of a new regional security framework to enhance stability and cooperation.
Expansion of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
The SCO, founded in 2001 by Russia, China, and Central Asian nations, has expanded to include India, Iran, and Pakistan, positioning itself as a counterweight to Western influence. The organisation now serves as a significant geopolitical alliance, with growing importance in regional and global affairs. The main meeting took place behind closed doors, but Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, quoted by the RIA news agency, confirmed Putin’s intention to discuss the new security system with the group.
With inputs from Reuters
