Shanghai Cooperation Organisation turns 25 as Putin highlights its importance

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation marked its 25th anniversary with a declaration supporting what its members described as a more representative and fairer multipolar world order. The document also called for reforms to global governance that would give states a more equal role in decision-making.

The declaration urged the responsible use of artificial intelligence, reform of global economic governance and closer cooperation on sustainable development. It also criticised what the group called “double standards”, particularly in the area of human rights.

The members stressed that the SCO is not a military organisation. They said they follow “an approach that excludes bloc-based and confrontational methods in addressing international and regional development issues.”

Beyond the main declaration, the leaders signed more than 20 additional documents. The agreements cover security, combating drug trafficking, technology, transport, energy and environmental cooperation. They include measures to strengthen regional security, expand transport and logistics links, develop artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure, and deepen cooperation on energy and environmental matters.