In a briefing ahead of China’s major diplomatic gathering, the country has accused the United States of “threatening world peace,” indirectly criticizing its rival superpower just days before hosting a high-profile summit. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) annual meeting, set to take place in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, will bring together over 20 foreign leaders, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Bin framed the upcoming event hosted by President Xi Jinping as a direct challenge to the “outdated concepts” of Western powers, referencing the US in vague terms. Liu emphasized that the SCO stands as an alternative to “clash of civilizations” thinking and Cold War mentalities, promoting cooperation over zero-sum games. The SCO, initially conceived as a counterbalance to NATO, has expanded considerably since its inception in 2001, now encompassing nearly double the original member states, including observer nations and dialogue partners like Saudi Arabia and Mongolia.
The US has never been part of the SCO, which remains dominated by China and Russia. Tensions between the US and several SCO member states have grown, particularly following President Trump’s tariffs and foreign policy stances. China’s recent border agreement with India and efforts to mediate in Russia’s war with Ukraine highlight the shifting global dynamics.
At the summit, Xi Jinping is expected to announce new initiatives aimed at bolstering the SCO’s influence and propose reforms to improve the global governance system. Additionally, Xi will sign the Tianjin Declaration alongside other member state leaders and outline the group’s development strategy for the next decade. High-profile attendees, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, will join the discussions, and some leaders like Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko are anticipated to remain for a military parade on September 3, commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end, where China will showcase its military advancements.
