The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit began with a ceremony in Tianjin this week. The summit brings the leaders of Asia as well as in the Middle East, and beyond. This gathering quickly took as an opportunity to showcase the global South’s increasing economic and political influence as it demonstrates a shift in the global balance of power.
Aims at Multipolarity
Through speeches and closed-door meetings, the leaders highlighted the necessity of establishing the world in a multipolar way that is not dependent on Western security and financial structures. The calls for more cooperation in energy, trade and technological innovation underscored the desire of members to determine their own path.
Trade and energy take Center stage
In the face of global markets for energy being strained due to ongoing conflict and uncertainty in supply chain, SCO members advanced new plans in the form of jointly-constructed energy corridors local currency settlements, as well as increased infrastructure investment. The focus was on the fact that it is clear that the Global South is no longer just as a passive participant in the global market, but looking to be a rule-maker.
Security concerns loom large
As the focus was on economic cooperation throughout the meeting, regional security issues, such as tensions within Central Asia, border disputes and war in Ukraine–also drew the attention of. The leaders framed their SCO to be a stabilizer power that could mediate conflict as well as counterbalancing Western militaristic alliances.
A symbol of South-South solidarity
Many people it is clear that the Tianjin summit goes beyond simply policy talks. It’s an important symbol of Global South solidarity. Nations with different political systems and agendas are converged over a common goal of decreasing dependency on Western institutions, and advancing alternatives to the existing frameworks.
What’s next?
Researchers are of the opinion that the results of this summit may be a catalyst for changes in the global system of governance. When SCO members commit to deeper connections to the global economy as well as new political initiatives as well, the Tianjin meeting could be remembered as a pivotal section in the development of the Global South.
