NEW DELHI: The top leaders of China, India, Russia, and Pakistan joined forces on Tuesday to strengthen ties and enhance cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). This political and security group aims to expand its reach and counter Western influence in the region.

Attending a virtual summit, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russia's President Vladimir Putin, China's President Xi Jinping, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and leaders from four central Asian countries discussed the future of the SCO. Initially established in 2001 by Beijing and Moscow, this organization welcomed Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi as they prepared for Iran's official induction as the ninth member. Additionally, Belarus will sign a memorandum of obligations, paving the way for its membership in the future.

With the inclusion of Iran and Belarus, SCO will fortify its presence in both Europe and Asia, extending its western flank. During the online summit, President Xi emphasized the importance of strengthened exchanges and mutual learning among SCO members. He stressed the need to uphold regional peace, ensure common security, and focus on pragmatic cooperation for economic recovery. Xi encouraged the member states to follow the right direction, enhance solidarity, and foster mutual trust.

President Putin, participating in his first international forum since recent internal disruptions, reassured leaders about Russia's stability and unity. He expressed Russia's commitment to strengthening ties with the SCO and advocated for the transition to local currencies in trade settlements. Putin also warned about the increasing potential for conflicts and the risk of a global economic crisis.

Furthermore, Putin expressed gratitude to the SCO members for their support in safeguarding the constitutional order, the lives, and the security of Russian citizens. He affirmed Russia's resilience against Western pressure, sanctions, and "provocations" related to Moscow's perceived military actions in Ukraine.

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Virtual SCO Summit to Address Regional Security and Cooperation