Xi Promotes Global Governance Reform at SCO Summit in Tianjin

Chinese President Xi Jinping has presented an ambitious vision for global governance reform, declaring that the world is at a critical juncture reminiscent of the period when the United Nations was established following two world wars. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit on September 1, 2023, Xi expressed concerns over the persistence of Cold War mentalities, hegemonism, and protectionism, which he claims contribute to a new era of “turbulence and transformation.” His comments come as conflicts continue in Ukraine and the Middle East, alongside rising tensions between China and the United States.

In his address, Xi underscored the importance of adhering to the principles of peaceful coexistence and international cooperation. He stated, “History tells us that the more difficult the times, the more we must hold fast to the original aspiration of peaceful coexistence.” Xi unveiled the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), aiming to forge a more equitable global governance framework by encouraging cooperation among nations. This initiative marks the fourth major international framework introduced by Xi since 2021, following the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI).

Xi outlined five priorities of the GGI: upholding sovereign equality, respecting international law, promoting multilateralism, prioritizing people’s needs, and achieving actionable results. He asserted that all nations, regardless of their size or wealth, should have an equal voice in global governance matters. Xi emphasized that international law should be applied consistently, rejecting double standards and the imposition of rules by a select few countries.

The SCO, established in 2001, comprises China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran, and several Central Asian nations, with Belarus as the newest member. Xi encouraged the SCO to take a leading role in implementing the GGI and to share innovative ideas on global governance. He stated that the organization should work to maintain stability through non-alignment and non-confrontation, particularly in addressing security threats and drug trafficking.

In discussing economic cooperation, Xi called for dismantling barriers rather than erecting them, advocating for deeper collaboration within the Belt and Road Initiative. He urged a shift towards a more inclusive form of globalization, announcing new platforms for cooperation in energy, green industries, and the digital economy. He pledged that China would collaborate with partners to enhance solar and wind power capacity over the next five years.

Xi also committed to advancing cultural and health exchanges among SCO members, including support for medical treatments such as 500 congenital heart disease surgeries, 5,000 cataract operations, and 10,000 cancer screenings across SCO countries within the next five years. He reiterated the importance of fostering civilizational exchanges to promote harmony and coexistence.

During an earlier address at the summit, Xi urged SCO heads of state to better align their development strategies for mutual benefit. He emphasized the need for openness and inclusivity within the bloc, while reinforcing the call for multilateralism.

At the conclusion of the summit, leaders ratified a joint declaration aimed at strengthening security, economic, and cultural collaboration among member states. The declaration also recognized the central role of the United Nations in global affairs and rejected bloc-based confrontation and unilateral economic sanctions. Additionally, it was announced that Laos has become a dialogue partner of the SCO, and Kyrgyzstan will assume the rotating chairmanship following China.

This summit marks a significant moment for the SCO as it seeks to expand its influence and enhance cooperation among its diverse member states.