Introduction: Uniting for a Common Future
The 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit held in Islamabad marked a significant step forward in strengthening cooperation between member states, particularly in areas of economic growth, security, and climate change. This summit also underscored the growing influence of the Global South, with a focus on leveraging digital innovation and sustainable development. Hosted by Pakistan, the summit was an important diplomatic event, bringing together key leaders from Asia, Russia, and Central Asia, with observer states such as Mongolia and special guests like Turkmenistan participating. The discussions spanned topics ranging from the digital economy to energy security, underscoring the importance of inclusive development for the Global South and its youth.
1. Snapshot of the 2024 SCO Summit
The 2024 SCO Summit in Islamabad saw participation from 10 member states, including major global players such as China, Russia, and India, along with observer states like Mongolia. Hosted by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the summit’s agenda revolved around mutual cooperation in economic growth, trade, climate action, and youth engagement.
Key Participants
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan chaired the summit, alongside prominent leaders like Li Qiang (Premier of China) and Mikhail Mishustin (Prime Minister of Russia).
Observer states included Mongolia, represented by Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai, while Turkmenistan was represented by Deputy Prime Minister Rashid Meredov.
Documents and Agreements Signed
Eight important documents were signed, including a Joint Communiqué outlining key decisions on trade, economic cooperation, security, and environmental efforts.
Key proposals included the creation of a SCO Development Bank and SCO Investment Fund to finance multilateral projects across the region.
2. Empowering the Global South: A New Era for Cooperation
The 2024 SCO Summit underscored the growing importance of the Global South in shaping international policy. With countries like Pakistan, Kazakhstan, and Iran actively promoting inclusive development, the SCO represents a key platform for these nations to strengthen their collective voice.
Pakistan's Leadership in the Global South
Pakistan's role as a host demonstrated its leadership within the Global South, leveraging its position to promote projects like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The summit also highlighted Pakistan’s efforts in fostering regional trade and infrastructure development through its strategic location as a hub connecting Central Asia, China, and the Middle East.
Key Empowerment Strategies
Economic Independence: The summit explored ways to reduce dependency on Western financial systems by expanding trade in local currencies and promoting the establishment of an independent settlement system for member states. This will enable greater financial autonomy and resilience against external economic pressures.
BRI and Infrastructure Growth: SCO members reaffirmed their support for China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with a focus on aligning infrastructure projects across Eurasia and South Asia. Pakistan plays a critical role in this through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which aims to enhance trade and connectivity throughout the region.
3. Empowering Youth: The Next Generation of Leaders
One of the most important focuses of the summit was youth empowerment. In a rapidly changing world, the SCO summit aimed to harness the potential of the region’s youth by creating opportunities in technology, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchanges. These efforts are seen as vital to ensuring sustainable growth for the Global South.
Education and Technology for the Youth
The summit encouraged cross-border educational exchanges, with programs like the SCO University Network providing students access to diverse academic fields and research opportunities across member states.
Digital Economy and Innovation:
One of the key outcomes was a decision to strengthen cooperation on the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and technological innovation. The youth will have opportunities to contribute to the digital transformation of their countries through initiatives like e-commerce, cybersecurity, and AI development.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
The establishment of the SCO Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum will provide a platform for young entrepreneurs to develop startups, particularly in the technology and green energy sectors.
The SCO Business Council and SCO Investors’ Association aim to foster cross-border investments that support youth-led businesses in sectors such as e-commerce, digital finance, and renewable energy.
4. Climate Change: Youth at the Forefront of Sustainability
Climate change was another critical area of discussion during the summit. With the Global South disproportionately affected by climate-related disasters, the SCO emphasized the need for joint efforts in mitigating the impact of environmental degradation. For the youth, this represents a key area where they can contribute to sustainable solutions.
Green Energy and Waste Management
The summit’s Green Development Initiatives laid out a framework for SCO member states to collaborate on renewable energy projects, with a particular focus on wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. This presents a wealth of opportunities for young scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to pioneer new technologies in clean energy.
A special task force on waste management was established, which will focus on improving waste disposal systems and reducing carbon emissions. Youth involvement in these environmental efforts will be critical, providing new avenues for research and innovation.
Climate Resilient Agriculture
The summit also highlighted the importance of climate-resilient crops, such as millet, rice, and wheat. Students and young professionals in agriculture and environmental sciences will be encouraged to engage in research aimed at increasing food security and sustainability.
5. Multilateral Economic Growth: Shaping the Future of the Global South
The SCO’s focus on economic cooperation provides a roadmap for the Global South to assert greater control over its economic destiny. By building multilateral frameworks for trade, investment, and infrastructure development, the summit sought to strengthen the economic resilience of member states.
Digital Economy and AI
A key focus was the SCO Digital Economy Cooperation Plan, which aims to expand e-commerce, digital payments, and AI innovation across member states. This will create job opportunities in technology fields, benefiting young professionals skilled in software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
Cross-border data exchange systems are also being developed to support secure information sharing among SCO countries, fostering greater technological integration across borders.
Economic Growth Through SME Cooperation
Recognizing the vital role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in promoting job creation and innovation, the summit called for increased cooperation in SME development. By reducing trade barriers and creating preferential policies, the SCO aims to support entrepreneurial initiatives that will directly benefit the youth and future business leaders of the region.
6. Cultural and Educational Exchanges: Building Bridges Across Borders
One of the hallmarks of the SCO is its emphasis on cultural and educational exchange. The summit explored new ways to enhance people-to-people ties through programs in sports, education, tourism, and culture. The goal is to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation across the region, with youth playing a central role.
SCO Sports Organization and Games
To foster youth engagement through sports, the summit saw the establishment of the SCO Sports Organization and the proposal to host SCO Sports Games. Sports diplomacy will strengthen ties between nations while promoting unity and peace.
Youth sports events, such as the Silk Road Five-a-Side Football Cup, will be organized to provide platforms for youth athletes to showcase their talents.
Tourism and Cultural Heritage
The summit’s focus on tourism and cultural exchanges will help youth better understand the region’s shared history and diverse cultures. Students can participate in study exchanges that allow them to experience different cultures within the SCO community.
The designation of Qingdao as the next SCO Tourism and Culture Capital promises a series of cultural festivals, exhibitions, and student exchange programs to foster greater people-to-people connections.
7. Youth Empowerment Through Diplomacy and Leadership
The 2024 SCO Summit also recognized the importance of youth leadership in international diplomacy. Students and young professionals are encouraged to engage with global organizations and forums to promote dialogue, peace, and development.
Model SCO and Leadership Programs
The SCO Youth Council will lead initiatives to engage students in diplomacy and international cooperation. Through programs like Model SCO and youth leadership summits, young leaders will be given the chance to participate in high-level discussions on global governance.
Internship programs
SCO institutions and NGOs will offer hands-on experience for students in areas such as climate action, economic development, and human rights.
8. The Road Ahead: Vision for 2030
The 2024 SCO Summit laid out a vision for long-term cooperation and growth among its member states. The SCO Economic Development Strategy 2030 provides a blueprint for sustainable, inclusive growth that is grounded in economic resilience, technological innovation, and environmental protection. For the Global South, this summit represents an important step in building a future where youth, innovation, and multilateral cooperation are at the forefront.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future Together
As the 2024 SCO Summit concludes, it is clear that the world is entering a new phase of multilateral cooperation. The Global South is rising, and its youth will be the ones to lead the charge. From digital innovation to climate action, the next generation of leaders is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on the world. Through education, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration, the future of the Global South is one of empowerment, progress, and unity.
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Tables
Table 1: Participants in the 2024 SCO Summit (Council of Heads of Government)
Country/Organization
Representative
Role/ Title
Belarus
Roman Golovchenko
Prime Minister
India
S. Jaishankar
Minister of External Affairs
Iran
Mohammad Reza Aref/ Atabak
First Vice President/ Industrial, Mining and Trade Minister
Kazakhstan
Oljhas Bektenov
Prime Minister
China
Li Qiang
Premier of the State Council
Kyrgyzstan
Akylbek Zhaparov
Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers
Pakistan
Shehbaz Sharif
Prime Minister
Russia
Mikhail Mishustin
Prime Minister
Tajikistan
Kokhir Rasulzoda
Prime Minister
Uzbekistan
Abdulla Aripov
Prime Minister
Mongolia (Observer State)
Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai
Prime Minister
Turkmenistan (Guest)
Rashid Meredov
Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Foreign Minister
SCO Secretary-General
Zhang Ming
Head of the Secretariat
SCO RATS Executive Committee
Ruslan Mirzayev
Director
SCO Business Council
Atif Ikram Shaikh
Chairman
SCO Interbank Union
Marat Yelibayev
Chairman
Table 2: Documents Signed at the 2024 SCO Summit
Document Number
Document Title
Details
1
Joint Communiqué of the 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government
Key decisions and resolutions about future cooperation, trade, energy, security, and environment
2
Decision on the Report of the SCO Secretariat on Multilateral Economic Cooperation Activities
Focused on enhancing multilateral cooperation among member states
3
Decision on SCO 2023 Budget Report
Detailed report on financial matters
4
Decision on SCO 2025 Budget
Planning the budget for the year 2025
5
Decision on Staff Positions of the SCO Secretariat
Staff organization and structural roles within the SCO Secretariat
6
Decision on Staff Positions of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS)
Organizational structure of the RATS Committee
7
Decision on the SCO "New Economic Dialogue" Concept
A plan to foster sustainable economic growth through green and digital development
8
Protocol Amending the 2017 SCO Budget Preparation and Execution Agreement
Adjustments to how the budget is prepared and executed
Table 3: Suggestions/Proposals
Suggestion
Details
Implementation Status
Establish SCO Development Bank and SCO Development Fund
Multilateral financing institutions for investment and development
Under negotiation
SCO Economic Development Strategy 2030
Key framework for long-term sustainable and inclusive growth
Ongoing implementation
Establishment of Independent Settlement System
Proposed settlement system to reduce reliance on USD/EUR
Under discussion
Promote "New Economic Dialogue"
Focus on digital economy, green development, and multilateral cooperation
Implementation initiated
Creation of SCO Sports Organization and SCO Sports Games
To enhance people-to-people cooperation in sports across SCO members
Proposal accepted
Joint Rail Transport Initiatives
Enhancing cross-border railway infrastructure, multi-modal transport, and logistics
Implementation in 2024-2025
Anti-Monopoly Cooperation
Strengthen anti-monopoly regulations within the SCO countries
Under consideration
Establishment of SCO Investors’ Association
Promotes investment cooperation and joint investment projects within the SCO
Established
Climate Change Cooperation
Special task force to focus on mitigating the impact of climate change
Action underway
Digital Public Infrastructure
Initiative to boost digital inclusion and innovation
Planned for 2025
Cross-border Digital Data Exchange Mechanism
Facilitate data exchange across borders within legal frameworks
Under consideration
Green Energy and Waste Management Plans
Comprehensive environmental cooperation in renewable energy and waste management
Action plan in progress
Table 4: Tasks and Action Plans
Task/Action
Assigned to
Deadline
Create SCO Development Bank and Development Fund
SCO Finance Ministries
Ongoing discussions
Conduct Climate Change Task Force Work
SCO Environment Ministries
2025
Draft Plan for SCO Digital Economy Cooperation
SCO Digital and Trade Ministers
2025
Draft Plan for Cross-Border Digital Data Exchange
SCO Information Ministries
2025
Strengthen Multilateral Trade System in line with WTO Rules
SCO Trade Ministers
Ongoing
Establish Framework for Energy Cooperation
SCO Energy Ministers
By 2030
Set up SCO Investors’ Association Mechanisms
SCO Investment Agencies
Established 2024
Organize "Silk Road Cup" Five-a-Side Football Competition
SCO Sports Organizations
December 2024
Strengthen Cooperation in Railway Transport Sector
SCO Transport Ministries
2024-2025
Set up SCO Railways Digitalization Plan
SCO Railway Authorities
November 2024
Develop Maritime and Port Infrastructure
SCO Logistics Authorities
Ongoing
Table 5: MoUs and Agreements
MoU/Agreement
Description
Status
SCO Members' Support for China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
Commitment to enhancing BRI projects with joint investments and infrastructure cooperation
Ongoing
SCO Economic Preferential Policies Database
Establishing a comprehensive database for economic cooperation among member states
Approved 2024
SCO Cooperation in Innovation and High-Tech
Fostering collaboration in high-tech industries, including AI, green energy, and technology transfer
Plan being formulated
SCO Energy Cooperation Strategy 2030
Joint collaboration in energy infrastructure and cross-border projects
Strategic implementation
SCO Road Transport Facilitation Agreement
Enhancement of road transport for trade facilitation
Active 2024
SCO Members' Green Economy Cooperation
Strengthen collaboration on green technology and green economy initiatives
Under development
SCO Members' Cross-Border Data Exchange
Developing secure data sharing frameworks across SCO borders
Under discussion
Table 6: Key Focus Areas
Focus Area
Details
Digital Economy
Strengthening SCO cooperation on digital infrastructure, e-commerce, digital payments, and AI
Green Development
Focus on renewable energy, climate change cooperation, and waste management
Transportation and Logistics
Developing integrated railway, road, and port infrastructure to enhance trade
Youth and Sports Cooperation
New formats for sports and youth cooperation, including the establishment of SCO Sports Organization and events
Cultural and Educational Exchanges
Cooperation in education, cultural heritage, and tourism, including SCO university partnerships and language learning
Climate Change and Environment
Cooperation to mitigate the negative effects of climate change and enhance environmental protection
Energy Security
Cross-border energy infrastructure projects, energy security, and clean energy initiatives
Economic Cooperation
Promoting multilateral trade, investment, and small-medium enterprise (SME) cooperation
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