SCO Summit Condemns Terrorism, Adopts Tianjin Declaration

Why in the News?

At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, world leaders strongly condemned terrorism, including the Pahalgam attack, reaffirmed opposition to unilateral coercive measures, discussed Afghanistan, Gaza, and Iran strikes, and approved steps like a development bank and new partner country status. The SCO Summit highlighted the organization’s role in addressing global challenges and promoting international relations in a multipolar world order.

Key Highlights of the 2025 Tianjin Summit:

Condemnation of Terrorism:

• Tianjin Declaration condemned terrorism in all forms, including Pahalgam (India) and Pakistan attacks.
• Called for ending cross-border movement of terrorists and cross-border terrorism.
• Reaffirmed fight against terrorism, separatism, extremism as key security challenges.

Global Issues Discussed:

• Opposed unilateral coercive measures (indirectly targeting U.S. sanctions/tariffs).
• Expressed concern over Gaza war, condemned civilian casualties.
• India joined others in condemning Israel & U.S. strikes on Iran (June 2025).
• Discussed Afghanistan’s peace process, emphasising inclusive governance and disaster management cooperation.
• Reaffirmed commitment to respecting the territorial integrity of all nations.

China’s Role:

• Xi Jinping criticized “Cold War mentality” and global “bullying behaviour.”
• Proposed Global Governance Initiative (GGI) promoting fairness, sovereignty, multilateralism, and sustainable development.
• Announced ¥2 billion in grants + ¥10 billion loan package for SCO countries to boost economic growth and integration, highlighting the importance of diverse financial mechanisms.

Institutional Developments and Expansions

Partner Country Expansion:

• SCO merged “dialogue partner” & “observer” into one status.
• Laos added as new partner; total = 27 (10 members, 17 partners).

SCO Development Bank:

• Members agreed to establish a development bank, long sought by Beijing.
• Aim: finance infrastructure, connectivity, and development projects across Eurasia, supporting economic integration through innovative financial mechanisms.

Other Highlights:

• Pakistan & Armenia established diplomatic ties at the summit, strengthening bilateral agreements within the SCO framework.
• Except India, all members reaffirmed support for China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• SCO continues to stress multilateralism under the UN framework and address geopolitical strategy in a changing world order.