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Putin: SCO 'locomotive of multipolarity,' catalyst for global development

Iran Press TV

Monday, 01 September 2025 9:59 AM

Russian President Vladimir Putin has described the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as a "powerful locomotive of multipolarity" and a key driver of global development.

Addressing the SCO summit in Tianjin, China, on Monday, Putin emphasized that the organization plays a crucial role in building confidence across Eurasia and fostering genuine multilateralism.

"Our organization acts as a powerful engine of global development processes and the establishment of genuine multilateralism," he stated.

Putin underlined the need for maintaining stability among member states and along their borders as a top priority for the organization.

He expressed Russia's support for a draft program to counter extremism, which was presented at the meeting, and reaffirmed Moscow's readiness to participate in its implementation.

The Russian president also pointed to two key agreements set for signing at the summit, namely the creation of a universal SCO center in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, to address current regional challenges and threats, and an anti-drug center in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, and said, "We expect the two centers to begin operations as soon as possible."

Turning to global affairs, Putin attributed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine primarily to Western interference, including efforts to draw Kiev into NATO.

He pointed to the 2014 coup in Ukraine as a critical factor, saying it removed political leadership that opposed NATO membership.

"The second reason for the crisis is the West's constant attempts to draw Ukraine into NATO. As we have repeatedly emphasized, this poses a direct threat to Russia's security," he said.

Putin stressed that the SCO serves as a stabilizing force in Eurasia and contributes significantly to fostering cooperation and mutual trust among member states. It also helps establish the political and socioeconomic foundations for greater stability, security, and peaceful development across the region, he added.

He noted, "Any system that replaces the outdated Eurocentric and Euro-Atlantic models and considers the interests of the widest possible range of countries would be truly balanced, ensuring that no state can secure its own safety at the expense of others."

Founded in 2001 by China, Russia, and several Central Asian republics to address regional security concerns, the SCO has since expanded to include India, Pakistan, Iran, and Belarus. An additional 16 nations hold observer or dialogue partner status. The organization conducts joint counter-terrorism drills, coordinates on security matters, and promotes cooperation in trade, energy, and education.

Over the years, SCO member states have increasingly positioned the organization as a strategic counterweight to NATO.