July 4, 2024

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday called on the members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to ensure security in the face of real threats from the Cold War mentality, and safeguard the right to development in the face of real risks from the "small yard, high fences" mind-set, while commending the solid foundation of the SCO amid growing membership. 

Xi made the remarks when addressing the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO held in Astana, Kazakhstan. Among the highlights of the meeting, Belarus officially became a member of the association, further underscoring the growing attractiveness and significance of the SCO on the regional and global stages amid rising geopolitical tensions and protectionism spearheaded by some Western countries. 

Following the summit in Astana, China will take over the rotating presidency of the SCO for 2024 and 2025. Foreign experts commended China on its important role within the SCO family and globally, saying that China has contributed greatly not only to cooperation within the SCO, but also to peace and development in the region and across the broader international community.

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