Promoting high-quality SCO development a priority in China's diplomacy

Editor's note: Li Ziguo is director of the Institute of Eurasian Studies at the China Institute of International Studies and secretary-general of the China Center for Shanghai Cooperation Organization Studies.

The article reflects the author's opinions and does not necessarily represent the views of CGTN.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has profoundly reshaped the geopolitical and economic landscape of Eurasia, becoming an indispensable mechanism for regional and global governance.

As one of the founding members, China has always linked its own development with the development of the SCO.

Championing the 'Shanghai Spirit' The SCO was established in Shanghai in 2001, when its founding members put forward the "Shanghai Spirit" featuring "mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for cultural diversity and pursuit of common development." These six principles, comprising 20 Chinese characters, embody the essence of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and China's diplomatic philosophy.

They have become the foundation and key to the SCO's success.

Throughout the organization's development, China has continuously proposed new concepts to enrich and expand the contemporary meaning of the "Shanghai Spirit." These include the principles of "non-alignment, non-confrontation and not targeting any third party," the pursuit of a new security vision featuring common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, the building of an SCO community with a shared future, and the creation of a common home featuring solidarity and mutual trust, peace and tranquility, prosperity and development, good-neighborliness and friendship, as well as fairness and justice.

China has been a contributor to the SCO's forward-looking concepts, while the SCO has served as a platform for China to advance and practice its diplomatic ideas.

Strengthening regional security through cooperation and dialogue The SCO has achieved extensive outcomes in security cooperation, with China playing a key role as both a participant and a driving force.

China took the lead in resolving border issues through peaceful negotiations with Kazakhstan, Russia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, turning thousands of miles of borders into bonds of friendship, trust and cooperation.

This experience has provided a successful example for the world while removing obstacles to regional cooperation and the SCO's development.

With China's active participation and promotion, the SCO has established a comprehensive counterterrorism and security cooperation mechanism.