DUSHANBE, July 31 (Xinhua) -- China has remained a key driving force behind the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), helping turn it into an important platform for peace and development, Jamshed Toshev, deputy director of Tajikistan's SCO Friendship and Cooperation Center, has said.
In a recent interview with Xinhua, Toshev said China, as one of the founding members of the organization, has played a constructive, consistent and strategically important role in the development of the SCO, carrying forward the Shanghai Spirit, strengthening practical cooperation and championing true multilateralism, and helping make it an influential platform for practical international cooperation.
One of China's most significant contributions has been strengthening the political foundation of the SCO, said Toshev. By upholding and enriching the Shanghai Spirit, China has helped foster a distinctive model of interstate cooperation based on mutual respect for sovereignty, equality, non-interference in internal affairs, consensus and consideration of all parties' interests.
"At a time when international politics is increasingly shaped by unilateralism and bloc confrontation, this philosophy of cooperation carries significance not only for the region but also for the wider world," he said.
Toshev also highlighted China's contribution to economic cooperation and connectivity. China has consistently provided SCO member states with tangible opportunities for development through infrastructure projects, the digital economy and green development.
"These efforts have enabled the SCO to become a platform for common development, where geographical proximity is transformed into greater connectivity and shared growth," he noted.
The expert also underscored China's role in promoting people-to-people exchanges, noting that educational programs, professional training, cultural exchanges and youth interactions have strengthened ties among the peoples of SCO member states and fostered greater mutual understanding.
"The vitality of an international organization depends not only on the effectiveness of its institutions, but also on the trust among its people," he said.
Toshev also spoke highly of China's role in enhancing the SCO's international standing. Amid mounting geopolitical competition, growing global uncertainties and rising unilateralism, China has consistently championed true multilateralism and promoted the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits within the SCO framework.
Toshev said China's continued efforts will provide strong support for the SCO's future development by strengthening solidarity among member states, expanding practical cooperation, enhancing the organization's capacity to address new challenges, and advancing its mission of promoting peace, development, equality and mutually beneficial cooperation.■
