25th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025

Why in the News? 

The 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025 was held in Tianjin, China (31 Aug–1 Sept 2025).

• PM Narendra Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines, focusing on India–China border peace, terrorism, trade, and people-to-people ties.

SCO Summit 2025 – Key Points

• Theme: Strengthening security, enhancing connectivity, and expanding opportunities within SCO member states.
• PM Modi highlighted three pillars of cooperation:

Security – united fight against terrorism, no double standards.

Connectivity – support for Chabahar Port, INSTC, regional transport links.

Scope – fostering innovation, empowering youth partnerships, encouraging cultural exchange, and promoting start-ups.

• China proposed:

• A 4-point plan for India–China ties (strategic communication, economic cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, multilateral coordination).
• Setting up an SCO Development Bank with large funding commitments.

• Russia pushed for trade in national currencies to reduce dependence on the dollar.
• Leaders discussed stabilising world trade amid global tensions and protecting multilateralism.

 Key Highlights of Tianjin Declaration 2025: 

• Firm denouncement of terrorism, with reference to the Pahalgam attack, and a demand that those supporting it be held responsible.
• Reaffirmation of commitment to peace, stability, and multipolar world order.
• Stress on economic cooperation, fair trade, and connectivity projects.
• Agreement to not let border issues define overall relations (India–China context).

About SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation)

• Founded: 2001.
• Members: 10 full members including China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Belarus.
• Focus Areas: Regional security, economic cooperation, counter-terrorism, connectivity, cultural exchanges.

Key Areas Discussed:

Counter-Terrorism:

• Strong condemnation of terrorism in all forms.
• Pahalgam terror attack mentioned in Tianjin Declaration.
• Emphasis on united efforts to curb terror financing and rejection of selective approaches.
• India pushed for cross-border terrorism references.

 Regional Security & Border Issues:

• India–China: Commitment to peace and tranquility on border; not to let border disputes define ties.
• Afghanistan situation discussed – call for Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process.
• Myanmar’s political situation – emphasis on inclusive, fair elections and dialogue.

Economic Cooperation & Trade:

• Proposal for SCO Development Bank (by China).
• Push for national currencies in trade (by Russia).
• India and China discussed balancing the trade deficit.
• Agreement to strengthen connectivity projects – INSTC, Chabahar, Belt & Road alternatives.

Connectivity & Infrastructure:

• PM Modi emphasized Chabahar Port, INSTC, and digital connectivity.
• Support for energy pipelines and transport corridors linking Central Asia to South Asia.

Global Governance & Multipolarity:

• Xi Jinping & Putin stressed on a new multipolar world order, rejecting bloc politics.
• Support for reforms in global institutions (UN, WTO, IMF).
• Greater role for SCO in global governance.

People-to-People & Cultural Ties:

• India & China agreed to resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, boost tourism visas, and direct flights.
• Proposal for Civilizational Dialogue Forum by India – youth, heritage, innovation.