Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko took part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin.

In his speech the President noted that a new international order was taking shape during the current challenging time. “The world is rapidly moving away from a unipolar model, which claims exclusivity and dominance by a specific group of countries, towards a fair multipolar system based on a balance of interests, respect for sovereignty, and mutual trust.”

“This transitional period is fraught with sharp contradictions and conflicts. We see this in various regions, including the Middle East, where serious disagreements among key players pose risks for our entire planet,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

He added that in many cases, the rise of antagonism and confrontation could have been avoided, as they often stem from a trivial lack of communication at the necessary level and in the appropriate tone.

“Unfortunately, not all contradictions spare the “Shanghai family”. However, it is precisely the ability to keep communication channels open and the skill to negotiate even in the presence of differences that make the SCO a truly unique and viable organization. In the context of an unstable global environment, unity and cohesion are our most significant advantages. As Confucius said: ‘When people are united, even the weak become strong; when they are divided, even the strong become weak,’” the Belarusian leader emphasized.

“Belarus takes pride in becoming a full member of the SCO a year ago. This aligns with our fundamental long-term interests and opens up additional opportunities and extensive areas for cooperation. Being part of the “Shanghai family” is our strategic choice,” the Belarusian leader said.

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized that today SCO is rightfully regarded as one of the most representative and influential international organizations in Eurasia. “It is natural that new states seek to join the organization,” he stated. “Minsk supports the expansion of the SCO with new members and partners, those who unconditionally share the values and foundations of the “Shanghai spirit”: mutual respect and trust, equality, dialogue, and a commitment to common development,” the President stated.

According to Aleksandr Lukashenko, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is becoming an integral part of a new international order. In this context, the President outlined key issues concerning the SCO's activities that, in the view of Belarus, require increased attention.

On creating mechanisms for indivisible security in Eurasia

The head of state reminded attendees of Belarus’ proposal to develop the Eurasian Charter of Diversity and Multipolarity in the 21st Century, viewing the SCO as a primary platform for discussing this initiative.

Belarus also welcomes efforts to establish the Universal SCO Center for Countering Security Challenges and Threats, and the Anti-Drug Center. “We must do everything possible to ensure these structures become operational as soon as possible,” the President stated.

On trade facilitation

Aleksandr Lukashenko praised the revitalization of dialogue in this area, which will help reduce barriers, increase trade volume, and boost cross-border investments.

“Today, trade between SCO countries has already exceeded $2 trillion, and this figure is not the limit. Settlements in national currencies, the creation of joint funds, investments in the digital economy, and green technologies will all be at the forefront of our attention,” the Belarusian leader stressed.

On the need for an independent financial mechanism

“In the current geopolitical climate, where unilateral sanctions are destabilizing factors, the need for an independent financial mechanism within the SCO is evident. There is a need for a mechanism capable of funding cross-border projects, mitigating the impact of sanctions, promoting the use of national currencies in trade, and supporting the development of key areas of cooperation, from logistics and energy to digital transformation and artificial intelligence,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

He expressed Belarus' support for the idea of establishing an SCO Development Bank, which would enhance the resilience of economic ties and represent an important step toward the region's economic sovereignty. “However, we all understand that the benefits of this bank will only be realized if it can operate effectively in each of the “Shanghai family” countries,” the President said.

On coordinating efforts with EAEU in transport and logistics

Aleksandr Lukashenko highlighted that geopolitical upheavals are disrupting international logistics chains. Therefore, Belarus believes it is important for the SCO and the EAEU countries to coordinate efforts in developing transport and logistics infrastructure for transport corridors, utilizing digital technologies and intelligent systems in the transportation sector.

“This will strengthen the connectivity of the SCO and Eurasian Economic Union member states, reduce transaction costs for businesses, and expand Central Asian countries' access to European and Chinese markets. Ultimately, it will enhance the resilience and security of supply chains under external pressure,” the Belarusian leader noted.

On developing unified scientific and innovation space

Belarus believes it is critically important to establish common scientific and innovation space within the SCO, Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed. 

He noted that mechanisms already exist, from working groups to the SCO Interbank Association, that can facilitate funding for joint research and development (R&D) projects and technological startups. This is particularly relevant as innovations become a key factor in sustainable growth. 

“Belarus is open to sharing experiences and implementing joint projects in agriculture, healthcare, IT, and applied sciences,” the President said.

On humanitarian dimension of cooperation

“We attach great importance to strengthening ties between SCO countries in education, science, and culture. The humanitarian dimension of the SCO must be filled with concrete content and new opportunities,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said. 

He suggested developing a comprehensive regional educational platform, potentially based on the SCO University. This platform would aim to cultivate a generation of specialists, individuals who know each other and respect the cultural nuances and achievements of partner countries. “In other words, a kind of ‘people's diplomats’ who will help foster an atmosphere of trust at the interpersonal level, shaped by the leaders of the Shanghai family,” the President added.

In his closing remarks, Aleksandr Lukashenko congratulated Kyrgyzstan on assuming the presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

He also extended his congratulations to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese people in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the end of World War II. Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized that the commemorative events highlight how the great Chinese nation, alongside the united family of the SCO, will not allow history to be rewritten. “We were together then, and I believe that, just as the Soviet and Chinese peoples stood together in the past, we will continue to shape the fate of humanity,” the President stated.

“This significant anniversary we celebrate together symbolizes the courage and resilience of the Chinese people in their fight against occupation and injustice. The victory in that war is not only a source of national pride for China but also an important contribution to the collective cause of international peace and security. I sincerely wish China prosperity, wellbeing, and further success in building a harmonious and sustainable future,” the Belarusian leader added.