The upcoming summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Tianjin, China, is set to highlight the intricate and evolving relationship between Beijing and Moscow, particularly in the context of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. As President Vladimir Putin joins around 20 other world leaders, the backdrop includes growing international sanctions against Russia and military strikes in Ukraine. The SCO, consisting of member states including China, Russia, India, and several Central Asian nations, presents itself as a counterbalance to the US-dominated global order. The summit provides a platform for leaders to address not only diplomatic strategies but also pressing geopolitical tensions exacerbated by the war and recent economic sanctions, notably those imposed by the Trump administration on India following its decision to maintain Russian oil imports.
Amidst the backdrop of the conflict, China has maintained a complex stance on Russia’s actions. In a statement following recent military escalations, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry emphasized the necessity of dialogue, advocating for diplomatic solutions while acknowledging the war’s ongoing nature. China has called for all parties involved to ensure that the conflict does not spread and has been vocal about the critical need for negotiations. Despite these calls for peace, China continues to provide substantial economic and military support to Russia, which has raised concerns within the European Union. EU officials assert that China’s support is pivotal to Russia’s military capabilities, and without it, the scale of the conflict may diminish significantly.
Experts suggest that Beijing’s position reflects a desire to simultaneously advocate for a diplomatic end to the conflict while ensuring that Russia does not face international isolation, which could destabilize regional dynamics. Observers like Hosuk Lee-Makiyama from the European Centre for International Political Economy note that while China seeks a resolution, it also maintains dialogue with Moscow, fostering a relationship that includes strategic economic support. This balancing act emphasizes China’s calculated maneuvering in international relations amid the tensions prompted by Western sanctions on Russia. Moreover, there seems to be an understanding among Ukrainian officials that, while China remains supportive of Russia, it does not pose an immediate threat.
The summit also presents an opportunity for a potential thaw in relations between China and India, especially in light of the tariffs imposed by the United States. The recent economic strains have led both nations to reconsider their diplomatic strategies. Lee-Makiyama indicates that, while resolving the conflict may not be as urgent for China and India as it is for European nations, a worsening situation in Ukraine could further complicate the global trade landscape. Consequently, collaboration between China and India could emerge as a significant theme at the summit, creating space for dialogue that transcends immediate geopolitical strife.
In addition to these discussions, the SCO summit will also see leaders participating in a military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan, underlining the historical military ties within the organization. The attendance of leaders from non-member countries, such as Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, adds another layer to the geopolitical conversations. Their presence highlights the ongoing search for partnerships outside the Western sphere of influence, suggesting that the SCO is positioning itself as a relevant player in fostering alliances in the current geopolitical climate.
Overall, the SCO summit encapsulates not just the dynamics of China-Russia relations but also the complexities of broader international interactions shaped by the war in Ukraine and shifting economic alliances. As leaders convene to address these pressing issues, the outcomes could yield significant implications for the future of regional cooperation and global governance in the face of mounting tensions between established powers and emerging blocs.
