Global South Nations Unite at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to host over 20 world leaders at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, from August 31 to September 1.

The gathering aims to showcase solidarity among Global South nations and provide a diplomatic stage for sanctions-hit Russia.

The summit will bring together leaders from various countries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who will attend the military parade.

The SCO summit focuses on regional cooperation, economic ties, and security issues. China aims to project an image of unity and challenge US-led institutions.

The meeting also provides an opportunity for bilateral talks, including discussions between Putin and Erdogan on the Ukraine conflict.

Multiple bilateral meetings are expected, including talks between Putin and Pezeshkian on Tehran’s nuclear program amid fresh Western pressure and a meeting between Xi and Modi to improve India-China relations after a seven-year gap.

The SCO summit highlights China’s efforts to strengthen ties with Central Asian states and promote a post-American global order. While the summit’s symbolism is strong, analysts caution that substantial policy outcomes may be limited due to deep-seated security and bilateral issues among member states.