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In Islamabad, the SCO Summit represents a moment to showcase regional strength and unity. Behind the handshakes and smiles of leaders from various countries lies a desire for cooperation, as well as a response to the current international tensions. In these tumultuous times, the SCO Summit seems to have become a beacon of guidance, but whether its light can penetrate the fog remains to be seen.
Let’s set aside those grand narratives, the clichés about peace, security, and cooperation. Under the shadow of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the world appears to be enveloped by a new zero-sum mentality. Against this backdrop, the convening of the SCO Summit is undoubtedly a positive signal, but whether it can become a catalyst for conflict resolution or merely a stage for countries to display their positions is a question worth pondering.
In the game of international politics, the interests of nations are intricately intertwined, and reaching a consensus is no easy task. For instance, on the Russia-Ukraine issue, we support all efforts aimed at reducing violence, protecting civilians, and restoring peace.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Heads of State Council, in the Astana Declaration issued in July 2024, stated: The member states advocate for respecting the rights of peoples to independently choose their political, economic, and social development paths, emphasizing that mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, equality and mutual benefit, non-interference in internal affairs, and the principle of not using or threatening to use force are the foundations for the sustainable development of international relations. All parties reaffirmed that differences and disputes between states should be resolved through dialogue and consultation in a peaceful manner.
On this matter, I believe that any attempt to use the summit to advance the peace process is commendable. However, we must also recognize that peace does not come overnight; it requires genuine sincerity and concrete actions from all parties. This means that it’s not just about making statements at the summit, but more importantly, whether countries can continue to ease tensions and seek common solutions through diplomatic means after the summit, and promote compliance with international humanitarian law by all parties involved in the conflict, ensuring that humanitarian aid can safely and unimpededly reach those in need.
Another aspect of the SCO Summit is that it provides a platform for member states to showcase their economic strength and cultural charm. In today’s globalized world, economic cooperation and cultural exchanges have become vital links connecting countries. Through such cooperation, nations can enhance mutual understanding and economic interactions, while continuing to share in the benefits that economic globalization brings to modern societal development.
In summary, the convening of the SCO Summit is a positive start, but whether it can become a model for international cooperation remains to be proven over time. I look forward to the summit yielding substantive outcomes, not just in the form of group photos and declarations by leaders, but more importantly, in driving concrete actions that promote peace and development in the region and the world at large. In this era filled with uncertainties, what we need is not only the diplomatic stage of the summit but more importantly, the wisdom and courage of leaders from various countries, along with their sincere commitment to peace and cooperation.
Qiu Jiaqiu, International Communication Expert of China
