Xi Jinping Advocates for New Global Order at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit

China Calls for New International System

Chinese President Xi Jinping recently addressed leaders at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, where he called for a reimagining of the current global order. His statements underscored a vision for a new international system that would move away from what he described as a "Cold War mentality" and "bullying behavior" on the world stage. This stance aligns with China's broader foreign policy goals of promoting a multipolar world, where power is distributed among several major global players rather than being concentrated in one or a few.

During the summit, President Xi emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and mutual respect among nations. He suggested that countries should work together to build a more inclusive and fair international governance system, which would reflect the diversity of global interests and developmental paths. This approach is often seen as a counter-narrative to the existing international framework, which China and Russia argue is overly influenced by Western powers.

Cooperation and Shared Vision with Russia

A notable aspect of the summit was the visible solidarity between President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Both leaders appeared to share a common perspective on the need for a shift in global power dynamics. President Putin, for his part, used the platform to reiterate his view that Western countries were responsible for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, further cementing a united front with China against perceived Western dominance.

The shared vision between China and Russia highlights a growing alignment of interests between the two major powers. They advocate for a security architecture that prioritizes national sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs, often contrasting this with what they portray as interventionist policies from other global actors. Their joint appearances and statements at the SCO summit underlined their commitment to fostering an alternative model for international relations and security.

What happens next

The call for a new global order from China, supported by Russia, is expected to continue shaping discussions within international forums. While the immediate impact on existing global structures may be limited, these pronouncements signal a long-term strategic direction. Further efforts are anticipated to strengthen organizations like the SCO, potentially drawing in more member states or increasing their collective influence, as these nations seek to build alliances that support their vision for a restructured international landscape.