Once a regional security group, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is now making waves as it welcomes new members like Pakistan and Iran—countries often labeled as "rivals" by Western powers. But is this alliance really about countering the West, or is there a bigger story? 🤔
Founded in 2001, the SCO originally focused on stabilizing Central Asia and combating terrorism. Today, its expanded roster—including economic heavyweights like India and energy-rich nations—has sparked debates about its evolving role. "We’re not a geopolitical poker chip," insists SCO Secretary-General Zhang Ming, emphasizing cooperation over confrontation. 💬
With combined GDPs rivaling the G7 and a population exceeding 3 billion, the SCO is flexing muscles in trade, tech, and climate initiatives. Recent summits have spotlighted projects like the China-Central Asia gas pipeline and digital currency trials. 📈
But the elephant in the room remains: Can an organization including both Russia and India stay united amid global tensions? Analysts say the SCO’s "non-aligned" ethos might be its superpower—prioritizing development while sidestepping Cold War-style blocs. 🌍✨
