Introduction
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a political, economic and security based alliance established in ash to facilitate cooperation through member states especially in the Eurasian continent. It was established on 15 June 2001 in Shanghai, China by six countries China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
The aims of SCO
The SCO was established in order to maintain regional stability, improve economic cooperation and fight terrorism, extremism and separatism. The range of its activities has increased over the years to accommodate trade, energy, cultural interactions, and development of infrastructure.
Member States
The SCO began with six members which have since grown. The two most recent additions to the organization include India and Pakistan as full members in 2017 broadening its regional perimeter. In recent years, a growth has also been seen with Iran becoming a member and there are other members who are observers such as Afghanistan and Belarus and Mongolia. Others e.g. Turkey have shown an interest in closer cooperation.
The significance of Global politics
SCO comprises more than 40 percent of world population and a good portion of the global economy. It offers a platform to the member states wherein they can synchronize in terms of security and it is also applicable in the fight against terrorism. The organization creates the balance of the Western alliances as well, making the world multipolar.
Economic and Cultural Cooperation
Other than security, the SCO facilitates trade and other economic ties, infrastructure development in form of the Belt and Road Initiative, and people-to-people ties. Cultural festivals, youth forums and educational exchanges assist in making the various member nations stronger in mutual understanding.
Conclusion
The SCO is shaping up to be an extremely strong regional association, fostering peace, cooperation and development in Asia. The importance of SCO in maintaining the stability of the region and the development of mutual growth of its members increases along with global changes.