Tianjin: As the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit convened in Tianjin, a significant focus was placed on fostering cooperation among countries in the Global South. The summit underscored the importance of managing differences quietly and achieving practical outcomes that positively impact people's lives in the region.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the summit highlighted various collaborative efforts between nations, such as the partnership in Coimbatore, India, where Electra EV produces battery packs for the electric transport sector with cells made by Chinese company CALB. This collaboration has persisted despite fluctuations in India-China relations, demonstrating the resilience and potential for future cooperation.
In Malaysia, Sarawak Energy's integration of hydropower and floating solar technology further exemplifies the successful implementation of cross-border projects involving Chinese companies. The summit emphasized that effective geopolitics is crucial for achieving tangible development goals in such initiatives.
The SCO, which has grown from the "Shanghai Five" to an organization with 10 member states and numerous partners across Asia, Europe, and Africa, aims to supplement multilateralism by upholding the UN Charter and international law, rather than rivaling the United Nations. The summit focused on pragmatic leadership, emphasizing the importance of delivering concrete benefits on the ground.
Chinese President Xi Jinping's global initiatives were also highlighted, emphasizing development, security, civilization, and governance. These initiatives aim to turn ideals into results, such as reliable energy and efficient transport systems, fostering inclusivity and practical problem-solving across borders.
The summit resulted in agreements to establish an SCO development bank, with China pledging significant financial support to address debt stress, climate shocks, and infrastructure gaps in member countries. Such commitments are crucial lifelines for supporting essential infrastructure and employment.
A symbolic moment at the summit was the handshake between President Xi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signaling a commitment to cooperation and a growing momentum toward a multipolar world order. Both countries, representing nearly 3 billion people, emphasized their intention to overcome historical mistrust and foster synergy in areas like economic growth and green transitions.
The insights from Tianjin stress the importance of patience, partnership, and delivery in achieving progress. By focusing on what matters most, trust can grow, and cooperation can flourish, stabilizing the region and contributing to a more inclusive and resilient world order.