China Reaffirms SCO Unity, Announces Substantial Support to Member States; What it Means for India

Tianjin, September 1: At the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), President Xi Jinping delivered a compelling address emphasizing unity, cooperation, and forward-looking development among the bloc’s 26 member nations. China pledged a series of strategic and humanitarian initiatives aimed at deepening regional integration and promoting shared prosperity.

A Legacy of Trust and Connectivity

Reflecting on the SCO’s roots, President Xi highlighted its founding principles—the “Shanghai Spirit” of mutual trust, equality, consultation, respect for cultural diversity, and common development. Over 24 years, the organization has implemented groundbreaking initiatives—a border-region military confidence-building mechanism, a sustained campaign against terrorism, separatism, and extremism, as well as significant cooperation in law enforcement and security. These efforts have contributed to maintaining regional stability.

China also underscored its leadership in launching the Belt and Road Initiative, which has aided development across the region. Reportedly, cumulative trade between China and SCO member states has already exceeded US $2.3 trillion, meeting President Xi’s own ambitious targets ahead of time.

Infrastructure and People-to-People Ties Strengthened

President Xi detailed the expansion of infrastructure networks—nearly 14,000 km of international land transport routes are now operative within SCO territories. The China‑Europe Railway Express has conducted over 110,000 train journeys, underscoring a robust connectivity agenda.

Moreover, the SCO has cultivated deep people-to-people connections through media, think tanks, and outreach programs for women and youth—initiatives aimed at fostering societal ties beyond government corridors.

Vision for Inclusive, Fair Global Governance

President Xi called on SCO members to prioritize solidarity, respect strategic differences, and bolster joint ventures across sectors such as energy, infrastructure, green industries, the digital economy, scientific innovation, and AI. He stressed that inclusivity and fairness must guide global governance and economic integration, rejecting Cold War-era blocs and championing a multipolar world rooted in the rule of law.

China’s Tangible Commitments

China announced a multi-pronged package to benefit SCO partners and communities:

-100 “small and beautiful” livelihood projects across member states slated for implementation this year.

-A RMB 2 billion (approx. USD 280 million) grant to SCO nations within the same period.

-Over the next three years, an additional RMB 10 billion (approx. USD 1.4 billion) in loans via the SCO Interbank Consortium.

Starting next year, China will double SCO-specific scholarships, launch an SCO innovative PhD program, establish 10 Luban Workshops, and offer 10,000 training opportunities for professionals.

Looking Ahead

Concluding with a Chinese proverb, “Where will prevails, no boundary holds,” President Xi urged member states to remain true to SCO’s founding spirit, bolster institutional capacity, and bring practical reforms to fruition. He positioned the organization as a cornerstone for creating an interconnected, harmonious future that benefits humanity at large.

What It Means for India

India, as a key SCO member, could tap into the increased funding and educational outreach—from infrastructure support to scholarships, advanced STEM training, and vocational programs. The expansion into digital economy, green industries, and connectivity infrastructure could unlock new bilateral opportunities. For Indian policymakers and businesses, aligning with these regional strategies could accelerate domestic sectors and deepen engagement within South and Central Asia.