Open dialogue will enhance SCO cooperation

Since its inception in 2001, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has developed its organizational structure, built a network of formal ties with other states and multilateral institutions, and furthered the agenda in an incremental way so member states can come up with broader economic, political and security objectives.

Since the establishment of the SCO, the world has undergone several transformations. The SCO member states, including the original members and the newly inducted ones, have seen their national security landscapes change. Security threats have changed on the regional and global fronts, as well.

The medium and focus of cooperation have also changed. Some of the countries that led the "economic revolution" have succumbed to internal and external pressures in the 21st century and lost the ground to emerging market economies. Perhaps this has prompted a change in government in some developed countries and spurred them to implement unilateral and trade protectionist policies.