Russia and China-led summit  convenes in Kazakhstan

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit is set to take place on July 3-4 in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. The meeting will focus on a wide range of topics aimed at strengthening the SCO's role in addressing current international and regional issues.

Established by China and Russia in 2001, the SCO tackles security concerns in Central Asia and beyond, with a particular focus on combating cross-border terrorism.

Notably, the United Arab Emirates, which was granted Dialogue Partner status in the SCO in 2023, is also expected to attend. This participation underscores the UAE's steadfast dedication to fostering balanced, diversified partnerships with nations and multilateral organizations globally.

Last year, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, emphasized the significant role the SCO has played over the years. "As an engaged member of the international community with an unwavering commitment to multilateralism, the UAE recognizes the critical importance of organizations such as the SCO in building bridges of cooperation between member states towards common objectives. In the coming period, the UAE will seek to make significant strides in its engagement with the SCO and its member states. As a people and country, we are delighted at being welcomed as a Dialogue Partner in an organization whose global influence and importance only continue to grow.”

This engagement highlights the UAE's proactive stance in international diplomacy and its strategic efforts to contribute to regional and global security discussions.

While Russia and China are likely to dominate the meeting, leaders or representatives from Azerbaijan, Belarus, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Qatar, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan are also expected to attend.