Soundbites

Since its inception, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has achieved remarkable progress based on the "Shanghai Spirit" of mutual trust, mutual respect, equality, mutual consultations, respect for diverse civilizations and pursuit of common development and has made great contributions to peace and stability as well as common prosperity in the region. Given the rising disputes and conflicts from anti-globalization and trade protectionism, it is of great importance to strengthen the multilateral partnership within the framework of the SCO.

Liu Yuanchun, vice-president of Renmin University of China

The fact that the SCO accepted India and Pakistan as full members reflects the inclusiveness and common development that the organization pursues based on the "Shanghai Spirit", which should be valued and carried on in a proactive manner. However, the enlargement of the organization will possibly result in more differences and even conflicts among the SCO members, so reform on the institutional setups of the organization and decision-making principles needs to be considered for the efficiency of the regional organization. People-to-people and cultural exchanges should be promoted among the SCO members to increase their mutual trust.