Overview
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance founded on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, China. It originally comprised six countries: China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Over time, the organization has expanded to include India and Pakistan as full members, and more recently, Iran. The SCO also has several observer states and dialogue partners, which include countries such as Afghanistan, Belarus, and Mongolia.
Political and Diplomatic Dimensions
The SCO's political and diplomatic influence has grown significantly since its inception. It serves as a platform for member states to collaborate on regional security issues, economic development, and cultural exchange. The organization's expansion to include India and Pakistan has enhanced its geopolitical weight, despite the historical tensions between these two countries. The inclusion of Iran as a full member in 2023 further broadens the SCO’s reach and influence in the Middle East.
Key political objectives of the SCO include:
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