Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a meeting in Kazakhstan during the annual session of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, a group founded by China and Russia in 2001 to discuss security in Central Asia and beyond. The SCO includes members like Iran, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, with observer states and dialogue partners including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
Leaders attending the meeting included President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, President Emomali Rakhmon of Tajikistan, and President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyzstan. President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus, soon to become a full member, was also present. Iran sent acting President Mohammad Mokhbar due to upcoming elections.
The SCO summit served as a platform for Putin to emphasize Russia’s support for a multipolar world and counter Western sanctions over Ukraine. The meeting focused on countering terrorism, with discussions on the organization’s value as a forum for non-Western countries. The SCO’s membership expansion reflects Russia’s aim to strengthen blocs of non-Western nations.
Although tensions exist within the SCO, particularly regarding political differences like the Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan, the meeting showcased efforts to balance relations with both Russia and China while engaging with Western nations. Talks on the Ukraine conflict were expected on the sidelines, with Guterres discussing issues like Russia’s actions at the U.N. Putin aimed to demonstrate global ambivalence toward the war in Ukraine.
The Astana meeting presented an opportunity for dialogue among prominent leaders not attending, showcasing the SCO’s relevance in the global political landscape. Discussions touched on issues like security cooperation, membership expansion, and regional dynamics as Central Asian nations sought to enhance collaboration with major neighbors and global partners.
