Belarus Joins SCO as 10th Member: What’s Next?

Belarus just leveled up its global diplomacy game! The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) welcomed Belarus as its 10th member during a high-profile summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, on July 4. This move officially expands the SCO’s influence across Eurasia – and hints at bigger shifts in international alliances.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko called the SCO one of the world’s 'most authoritative' groups during the meeting. With its growing clout, he added, more countries are eyeing membership like concert tickets to a sold-out show.

But what does this mean for everyday Belarussians? CGTN hit the streets to find out. Residents shared excitement about deeper cooperation with China and other SCO nations. Meanwhile, Yuri Senko, Belarus’ former ambassador to China, painted a vivid picture: membership could unlock trade boosts, tech collaborations, and even safer borders through anti-terrorism efforts.

Think of the SCO as a VIP club for geopolitics – and Belarus just got backstage access. Will this membership spark new cultural exchanges, startup partnerships, or green energy projects? Stay tuned.

Reference(s):

We Talk: Belarus happy to become 10th member of SCO

cgtn.com